One of the most significant aspects of the Loi anti-gaspillage pour une économie circulaire (AGEC) is its focus on eliminating single-use plastics.
By 2040, France aims to phase out these plastics entirely, with interim goals set across four phases: 2021-2025, 2025-2030, 2030-2035, and 2035-2040. Each phase incorporates measures to reduce, reuse, and recycle plastic products.
“This initiative marks a turning point in our relationship with plastics,” a government representative stated. “By adopting this law, we’re not just managing waste but transforming consumption and production patterns.”
Fast-food outlets, for instance, are now required to use reusable dishware for on-site dining, a measure implemented on 1 January 2023. This regulation alone is expected to prevent millions of tonnes of waste annually.
Moreover, retailers selling takeaway beverages must offer discounted rates for customers using reusable containers. Such steps aim to incentivise sustainable consumer behaviour.
Empowering consumers and businesses
The AGEC law prioritises consumer education to drive environmental change. It mandates clear labelling on products to facilitate recycling and ensure proper waste sorting.
A unified logo is being introduced to help consumers easily identify recyclable materials, while waste bin colours are harmonised nationwide to simplify disposal processes.
Transparency is another cornerstone of this legislation. Businesses are required to inform consumers about the environmental impact of their products, including the presence of endocrine disruptors.
Internet service providers must disclose the carbon footprint of data consumption, enabling customers to make informed decisions.
Retailers, too, have their role to play. Shops larger than 400 square metres must provide reusable containers for unpackaged goods.
This move, combined with a directive to dedicate 20% of retail space to bulk sales by 2030, underscores the law’s focus on reducing packaging waste. “These regulations challenge businesses to rethink operations, but they also open avenues for innovation,” remarked a sustainability expert.
Combatting waste through reuse and recycling
The AGEC law takes a firm stance against waste, particularly non-food items. From 2022 onwards, the destruction of unsold goods has been prohibited, compelling businesses to donate or recycle surplus stock.
Similarly, food distributors must reduce waste by 50% by 2025 and donate unsold edible items to charities.
Household waste is also addressed. By January 2024, every French household will have access to organic waste collection, enabling food scraps to be converted into biogas or compost.
This measure aligns with the broader goal of valorising biodéchets (biodegradable waste), which contributes to localised circular economies.
To bolster reuse initiatives, the law has established funding mechanisms for organisations such as recycling centres and social enterprises. Manufacturers of products like furniture and electronics are required to contribute financially to these funds, further embedding sustainability into their operations.
A model for sustainable transformation
France’s AGEC law represents a comprehensive effort to overhaul its production and consumption systems, transitioning from a linear to a circular economy.
By addressing plastics, consumer behaviour, and waste management, this legislation not only mitigates environmental damage but also fosters a culture of sustainability. Other nations would do well to study and adapt these measures to their unique contexts.
