What is the Single-Use Plastics Fund Act?
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Why the topic is important now
Since the Single-Use Plastics Fund Act (EWKFondsG) came into force on January 1, 2024, one aspect of product responsibility has been particularly in focus: manufacturers of single-use plastic products are obliged to financially contribute to the costs of collection, cleaning, and disposal.
For many companies, this means: new obligations, new risks – and an urgent need for action. In this article, we explain what is behind the law, who is affected, and what you as a manufacturer must do now to act in a legally compliant and economically secure manner.
What is the Single-Use Plastics Fund Act (EWKFondsG)?
- The EWKFondsG is a German law that implements the European Single-Use Plastics Directive (EU) 2019/904 into national law. The aim is to reduce environmental pollution caused by certain single-use plastic products – especially products that frequently end up in public spaces as "litter."
The basic idea:
"Anyone who puts single-use plastics into circulation should also bear the subsequent costs."
Who is affected by the EWKFondsG?
As "manufacturer" within the meaning of the law, all companies that place certain single-use plastic products on the market are considered – this includes, among others:
- Importers (e.g., from non-EU countries)
- Fillers of private labels (e.g., co-packers of retail companies)
- Online retailers who deliver products to Germany
- Producers who sell their goods directly
Particularly important: Foreign companies that commercially supply single-use plastics to Germany are also subject to the obligation – this particularly affects companies from other EU countries or third countries.
Which products are covered by the law?
The law defines a specific list of single-use plastic products, including:
- Plastic beverage cups (clear cups, plastic cups)
- Food packaging for immediate consumption (stand-up pouches, flat plastic bags)
- Plastic carrier bags (plastic bags)
- Wet wipes containing plastic
- Balloons
- Tobacco products with filters
A complete list is provided by the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR).
What do manufacturers actually have to do?
The obligations for affected companies essentially consist of three elements:
1. Registration with the Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR)
Before single-use plastic products may be sold in Germany, manufacturers must register in the packaging register LUCID.
2. Registration with the Federal Environment Agency
Retailers can easily register via the DIVID platform and then receive a registration number.
3. Quantity Reporting
Once a year, the quantities placed on the market per product type and material must be reported.
4. Financial contribution to the Single-Use Plastics Fund
Based on the reported quantities, corresponding levies are calculated, which flow into a central fund. This fund finances municipal cleaning and disposal measures.
Is there an audit obligation?
Yes. Companies that exceed certain quantity thresholds are obliged to have their reports confirmed by an accredited auditor. Currently, the limit is over 100 kg.
DIVID-Mengenmeldung.de:
"Our external auditors are listed with the ZSVR and carry out the legally required audit of your data."
What deadlines apply?
- Quantity reporting: by May 15 of the following year
- Audit confirmation: also by May 15
- Payment of the levy: after notification by the ZSVR
What are the consequences of non-compliance?
Those who do not fulfill their obligations face fines of up to €100,000. In addition, there is a risk of:
- Exclusion from selling certain products
- Reputational damage
- Default interest or late payment surcharges
Our offer: Quantity Audit according to EWKFondsG
As a B2B online shop specializing in the EWKFondsG, we offer:
- Fast, legally compliant audit by accredited auditors
- Transparent pricing structure
- Full support with all documents & processes
✅ Ideal for manufacturers, online retailers, e-commerce brands, co-packers and fillers via private label or white label solutions through contract fillers and manufacturers.
Your next step
Are you a manufacturer within the meaning of the EWKFondsG and require a legally compliant audit confirmation with an audit report?
Then book your audit package now in less than 5 minutes!