Associations, local authorities and circular economy companies are advocating that 5% of the financial contributions paid by packaging producers be earmarked for reuse, instead of being exclusively channelled to recycling. This position was presented within the scope of a public consultation on the future of the packaging waste management system in Portugal.
The proponents of this measure invoke the polluter-pays principle, arguing that disposable packaging producers should also fund reuse solutions, not just the treatment of waste after disposal. This demand arises in a context of transition towards more ambitious circular economy models.
The proposal aims to change the current funding model for the packaging system, which currently favours recycling over reuse. The signatories want to ensure that part of the financial resources contributed by industry is invested in infrastructure and programmes that promote the recovery of packaging.
