Single-Use Plastics Directive (EU 2019/904)
Sweden
Reducing Plastic Waste in the EU
The Single-Use Plastics Directive (EU) 2019/904 is part of the European Union’s initiative to reduce plastic waste, especially items most commonly found in the environment. It targets many everyday plastic items — such as food containers, cups, cutlery, wrappers, and straws — whether sold online or offline.
The directive bans certain products and introduces labelling, reporting, and producer responsibility rules for others. While the EU sets the framework, each member state implements these rules slightly differently.
This page gives an overview of the EU directive and links to country-specific requirements below.
What the Directive Requires
Depending on the product type, the directive may require:
- A complete ban on certain items
- Reduced consumption (e.g. cups and wrappers)
- Product labelling requirements
- Producer registration, reporting, and environmental fees
Who Is Responsible?
If you place affected single-use plastic products on the EU market under your brand, you are legally responsible for:
- Ensuring you do not use restricted items
- Following national rules for labelling and reporting
- Registering with local authorities where required
We support our clients in understanding which rules apply and in sourcing compliant alternatives.
Sweden requires producers of single-use plastics to help fund the cost of public waste cleanup and recycling.
What is required
- Register with the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency
- Report annual volumes of affected items placed on the market
- Pay littering and clean-up fees for relevant products
- Applies to cups, wrappers, tobacco filters, wet wipes, and balloons
When does it apply
- In force now
- Annual reporting and fees apply going forward
Who must comply
- All producers and importers of covered products in Sweden
- Foreign sellers offering products to Swedish customers are also included
More info: Swedish EPA