Monaco introduces new restrictions on single-use plastic food packaging
New restrictions on single-use plastic food packaging have come into force in Monaco as the Principality continues efforts to reduce plastic waste.
Since 1 September, certain plastic packaging used for fresh, ready-to-eat food can no longer be used, particularly where the packaging is designed to be discarded within just a few days.
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The new rules also cover some pre-packaged products with a use-by date of less than three days.
The measure is intended to target plastics with a particularly short lifespan, sometimes used for only a few hours before being thrown away.
Consumers will continue to find the same food products in Monaco’s shops, but businesses will gradually replace the affected packaging with alternative solutions.
Some exemptions have been introduced where plastic remains necessary for food safety, preservation or reducing food waste.
These include certain coatings used to keep products sealed or properly preserved, as well as plastic containers for freshly cut fruit.
The restrictions form part of a series of measures introduced by the Monaco Government in recent years to progressively reduce the use of disposable plastics across the Principality.
Ahead of the changes, the Department of the Environment has been working with local businesses to explain the new requirements and help them identify suitable alternatives.
This has included support through Monaco’s Committed Shops and Restaurants network, which has been helping participating establishments prepare for the new rules.