Plastic Bag Consumption in the EU

Despite significant efforts by EU Member States to curb lightweight plastic bag usage, consumption remains alarmingly high. Lithuania, Latvia, and the Czech Republic lead in per capita use, while Belgium, Poland, and Portugal report the lowest figures.

In 2022, nearly 30 billion lightweight plastic bags were purchased across the EU, averaging over 66 bags per person. These bags, defined as being less than 50 micrometers thick, pose a severe environmental threat as they disintegrate into microplastics that infiltrate the food chain.

Although measures like additional taxes and the promotion of biodegradable alternatives have reduced consumption by 30% since 2018, the ongoing prevalence of plastic bag usage necessitates continued vigilance and innovative solutions.