Legal regulation of restriction of use of disposable plastic products in the European Union

The article analyses the problem of plastic waste in the context of transition to a circular economy, which is one of the priorities of the European Union’s policy. The author emphasises the introduction of restrictions on the use of plastic products, starting with Directive 2008/98/EC, which establishes a basic framework for waste management, including plastic, with a focus on recycling and the transition to a circular economy, in order to achieve targets by 2025, 2030 and 2035. The main focus is on Directive 2019/904 on the reduction of the use of single-use plastic products, which aims to reduce the negative impact of plastic on the environment. The Directive provides for a ban on certain types of single-use plastic goods, including plastic lids that must remain attached to containers during use. The article analyses the importance of harmonising the legislation of the EU member states in the process of implementing this Directive, as differences in national laws may lead to legal conflicts. The economic challenges for countries with less developed waste management systems, which may have difficulty meeting the requirements within the established timeframe, are also considered. The article emphasises the need to introduce new technologies and environmentally sustainable consumption patterns to ensure effective implementation of the Directive. Examples of initiatives aimed at reducing the use of single-use plastic, such as the deposit system for plastic bottles in Germany and the Swiss ReCircle programme, are also discussed. Ukraine is also implementing measures to reduce plastic waste, but legislative initiatives need to be further developed to achieve global environmental goals. The article emphasises the importance of raising legal awareness among citizens and businesses for a successful transition to a circular economy.