Duty to offer not implemented
Greenpeace wants to sanction multipath violations
02/08/2023, 08:45 am
Since January 1st, German companies have been obliged to offer multiple-use products. But the implementation is sluggish: the effort is too great and the time is too short, tradespeople complain. Environmentalists see it differently and are demanding legal consequences. Customers are also encouraged to help.
Environmental organizations criticize violations of the reusable offer obligation in the hospitality industry and want to take action. Greenpeace is planning an information portal on which customers can report companies that, despite being obliged to do so, do not offer reusable packaging for drinks or to-go meals, as Viola Wohlgemuth from Greenpeace said. On the basis of test purchases, the German Environmental Aid also speaks of violations by large providers, against whom legal action is to be taken.
The hospitality industry meanwhile refers to high burdens for the companies. “The new multi-way offer obligation is associated with considerable organizational and logistical effort for companies,” explained the general manager of the Dehoga industry association, Ingrid Hartges. In order to be able to offer food in reusable containers in a hygienically safe manner, structural and technical requirements would have to be created.
From the point of view of environmental aid, however, the industry had enough time to prepare. This Thursday she wants to present the results of her own research at 16 large restaurant chains at a press conference. Greenpeace expert Wohlgemuth also insists on enforcement of the regulations by the competent state authorities – with criminal prosecution in the event of violations.
Since the beginning of the year, restaurants, bistros and cafés that sell food on the go have had to offer reusable packaging in addition to disposable packaging – provided they use disposable plastic packaging. There must be a reusable alternative for drinks of all kinds. Exceptions apply to smaller shops that are no larger than 80 square meters and have a maximum of five employees. There, however, customers must be given the opportunity to have their own containers filled. Violations can result in fines of up to 10,000 euros.