European Commission launches consultation on bio-based plastics in packaging

The European Commission has launched a public consultation to gather views on using bio-based feedstocks in plastic packaging, as part of efforts to support a more sustainable and competitive European Union bioeconomy

Launched on 21 October 2026, the consultation will remain open until 13 January 2027, inviting stakeholders across the packaging value chain to share evidence, experience, and insights to help shape future EU policy.

A more sustainable packaging sector

The consultation forms part of the Commission’s review under Article 8 of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and the Strategic Framework on a Competitive and Sustainable EU Bioeconomy.

The PPWR aims to establish a coordinated approach to packaging and packaging waste across the EU, focusing on reducing waste, improving recyclability, and encouraging more circular resource use.

As part of this review, the Commission will assess developments in bio-based plastic packaging, including its technological progress and environmental performance. The findings will help determine whether additional measures are needed to encourage the use of bio-based feedstocks in packaging production.

Exploring opportunities and challenges

Bio-based feedstocks could offer an alternative to traditional fossil-based raw materials used to manufacture plastics. Increasing their use could help reduce the EU’s reliance on imported fossil resources, strengthen strategic autonomy and lower the packaging sector’s carbon footprint.

However, their wider adoption also raises questions about the sustainability of raw material sourcing and production, environmental impacts, material availability and compatibility with existing recycling systems.

The Commission is gathering evidence on these issues, along with views on potential market demand measures and targets to increase the use of bio-based feedstocks. Any future approach could also include sustainability requirements to help ensure that these materials deliver genuine environmental benefits.

Who can participate?

The consultation is open to all interested parties, including packaging manufacturers, raw-material suppliers, bio-based plastics producers, recyclers, brand owners, retailers, environmental organisations, research institutions, public authorities and citizens.

Feedback will help the Commission evaluate the opportunities, limitations and trade-offs associated with bio-based plastic packaging, including the role of suitable recycling technologies.

The Commission will use the responses to inform its assessment under Article 8 of the PPWR. Depending on the findings, this process could lead to a legislative proposal establishing a framework to encourage the use of bio-based feedstocks in plastic packaging.

Stakeholders are encouraged to submit evidence-based responses by 13 January 2027 to help inform future EU packaging policy.