New plastic bill in Germany could force manufacturers to pay €450 million per year to litter cleanups

Germany’s plastic manufacturers will soon be required to pay for litter collection.

A bill, approved by the Cabinet on Wednesday, will require manufacturers of single-use plastic products to contribute to a central fund.

The bill is expected to take effect in 2025.

Based on past single-use plastic production by the companies, the fund is expected to collect approximately €450 million in the first year, contributing to the cost of cleaning up litter in streets and parks.

Environment Minister Steffi Lemke said the cost of cleanups in Europe’s biggest economy is currently borne by all.

“That should change,” she said. “Whoever depends on putting single-use plastic onto the market for their business should contribute to the collection and cleanup costs.”