The implementation structure and the provision of the online platform, DIVID, as part of the Single-Use Plastic Fund (EWKFonds) remain a challenge for the parties involved. Following a careful and comprehensive assessment of the overall circumstances, the UBA, as the enforcement authority of the Single-Use Plastic Act, has made an exception for this year. Quantity reports may be submitted without external verification or confirmation until 15 June 2025. Quantity reports of over 100 kilograms without the confirmation of an examiner will be possible via DIVID from 2 May 2025.
This change does not nullify the UBA’s ability to request such examinations and corresponding confirmations without prior notice in individual cases. Manufacturers are still, as before, required to create quantity reports and to pay the special levy in accordance with the Single-Use Plastic Fund Act.
Omitted, late, incomplete or inaccurate reports can be penalised by the UBA with a fine of up to 10,000 Euros.
In May 2025, the UBA will hold an association-wide forum with manufacturer organisations to explain the changes to the reporting obligation. In the lead-up to this event, the UBA will further specify the legal scope of application in the FAQs published on the Single-Use Plastic Fund website , with particular referencing to food containers, plastic bags and film packaging.
About the Single-Use Plastic Fund Act:
Since 2024, the Extended Manufacturer Responsibility has applied not only to manufacturers of to-go food containers or cigarette filters (and other tobacco products), but also those of other single use products. This means that these manufactures are also obliged to contribute to the costs of waste collection, cleaning and disposal in public areas, as well as to waste advisory services. The details of how these costs are to be borne are governed by the Single-Use Plastic Fund Act. Since 2024, the obligation to pay the levy has applied regardless of whether or when registration takes place.
The UBA will provide information concerning the incremental activation of new functions by DIVID as soon as possible on DIVID and on the www.ewkf.de homepage.
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