EU regulations and Poznań initiatives target packaging and plastic waste

New European Union regulations under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) are set to change how the food service industry operates. Starting February 12, 2027, all catering establishments selling food and drinks for takeaway—ranging from cafes to food courts—must be able to fill containers provided by customers free of charge. This measure aims to reduce single-use packaging waste. While Polish sanctioning laws are still being drafted, the legal obligation is already in effect, with potential fines for non-compliance reaching up to one million PLN.

In a related effort to reduce plastic waste, the water utility Aquanet has launched an initiative in Poznań to promote free tap water in local restaurants. The campaign aims to establish ‘Kranówka Poznańska’ as a recognizable local symbol. A map of participating establishments will be available to help residents and tourists find locations where tap water is served at no cost. This local movement follows the withdrawal of a previous Polish government proposal that would have mandated free tap water in all restaurants nationwide due to legislative imprecision regarding costs and implementation duties.