No to the Plastic Tax
Why a Plastic Tax Will Not Solve Our Problems
We have actively opposed the introduction of a plastic tax and are pleased that the issue has been postponed for now, as no practical model has been presented so far. This interim result shows that collective engagement can make a difference.
Together with our association, IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen e.V. and our employees, we have worked intensively to highlight the issues surrounding the plastic tax. With posters, we raised awareness of the potential negative impacts, and through a petition within our company, we mobilized many supporters. We handed over these signatures to regional politicians, accompanied by an open dialogue in which we presented ourselves and our beliefs.
We made it clear that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have always thought sustainably – not out of compulsion, but out of conviction. For us, sustainability means not only acting ecologically but also economically sensibly. SMEs thrive by using resources responsibly, as this is the foundation of our success. Protecting nature is not an obligation for us, but a principle by which we operate.
Our efforts have paid off, but we know: the discussion is far from over.
Now, we must remain vigilant and continue to represent our position. We are aware that sustainable action can be achieved in many ways – and the plastic tax is not part of that for us.
As a leading manufacturer of film products in Germany, we at Verpa face the challenge of developing high-quality and functional packaging solutions every day. However, we view the proposed plastic tax critically. Here are our arguments for why such a tax would be counterproductive and set the wrong incentives:
1. Plastic is often the more sustainable solution
Plastic has a negative image in the public perception. However, modern plastic products are often the best option to prevent food waste and reduce CO₂ emissions. For example, plastic packaging is often lighter than alternatives, resulting in fewer emissions during transportation. A blanket tax on plastic would overlook this efficiency and could result in materials being used that actually have a worse environmental footprint.
2. Strengthening recycling infrastructure instead of making plastic more expensive
We are convinced that the key to a more sustainable future lies in building a better recycling infrastructure. The technology for effective plastic recycling already exists but needs to be further expanded and promoted. A tax, on the other hand, would merely shift the costs to companies and consumers without automatically leading to more recycling. By improving collection and recovery systems, we could reduce plastic waste without burdening the industry’s innovation.
3. Promoting the innovative power of the plastic industry
The plastic industry in Germany is a driving force for innovation and continually develops new solutions to make plastics more efficient and environmentally friendly. Our research and development departments work to make films thinner, more durable, and more recyclable. A tax on plastic would stifle the innovative power of our industry and force companies to pass on higher costs to their products, ultimately affecting consumers.
4. Unfair burden on SMEs and consumers
As a medium-sized company, we know how important it is to remain competitive in the global market. A plastic tax would disadvantage German companies compared to international competitors who are not subject to such fees. The additional costs would ultimately have to be borne by us and our customers – especially by consumers who rely on affordable packaging solutions in their daily lives.
Our appeal: Sustainability through collaboration
We say a clear no to the plastic tax. Instead of additional burdens, we advocate for constructive solutions that consider the entire lifecycle of plastics. Together with politics and partners, we want to work on promoting innovative recycling methods and further developing the circular economy.
Let’s work together to protect the environment through smart and sustainable measures – without weakening the innovative power of our industry.
