,On April 1, 2026, the World Trade Organization (WTO) circulated notification G/TBT/N/ITA/39 submitted by Italy, proposing a technical regulation to introduce biodegradability and compostability requirements for certain types of single-use plastic packaging. The draft measure is issued by the Ministry for Enterprises and Made in Italy. The proposed legislation amends Legislative Decree No. 152 of April 3, 2006, by introducing new provisions requiring specific packaging types to meet biodegradability and compostability criteria. This measure aligns with the flexibility provided to EU Member States under Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste. The draft also establishes obligations to comply with existing legislation on food contact materials and waste management, and outlines procedures for defining exemptions in accordance with EU rules. Additionally, the proposal introduces administrative penalties for non-compliance with the new requirements, thereby strengthening enforcement. The measure aims to support environmentally sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic packaging by allowing biodegradable and compostable products to be produced as an exception to general recyclability requirements. The draft regulation is currently open for public consultation, with a comment deadline of May 31, 2026. The objective is to enhance environmental protection and promote sustainable packaging solutions within the framework of EU legislation.
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