Amsterdam Considers Ban on Disposable Packaging

Why Current Efforts Are Falling Short
The city has not been sitting idle. Streets are now cleaned more often, and businesses must clear up the litter around their premises. Even so, Amsterdam has struggled to stay consistently clean. The problem is especially visible in busy areas that draw large crowds of visitors, where single-use plastic waste tends to pile up fast.

Heinhuis believes the real answer lies in changing habits rather than simply cleaning up more. "Waste piles up around trash bins and on the streets, while the solution is right in front of us: ending the throwaway culture," she said. In her view, a ban on disposable packaging is a realistic option.

A Last Resort With Conditions Attached
Research commissioned by the municipality has found that such a ban would be legally possible. However, it would only be used as a last resort. The city could introduce it only alongside a system of reusable takeaway packaging, backed by collection points where customers can return their containers.

Heinhuis will now draw up a plan to move in that direction. "Our goal is clear: a city without litter, where reuse is the norm," she said.