Catalonia Bans Single-Use Printer Cartridges
July 12, 2024
Catalonia has enacted a new waste law emphasizing circular economy principles, a significant step towards environmental sustainability. The legislation, inspired by similar measures in the Balearic Islands, aims to revolutionize waste management across various sectors, including document printing.
ETIRA (European Toner and Inkjet Remanufacturers Association) has been actively engaged in discussions with Catalonia’s Waste Prevention Agency. These discussions have focused on the new law and the broader implementation of circular criteria in document printing. Key strategies include extending the lifespan of devices and reusing consumables, which are crucial for reducing economic and environmental costs.
“The new waste law in Catalonia has a strong circular ambition and includes several measures from the Balearic waste law, which Mr. Sebastia Sanso presented at the FOE last year. ETIRA has been contacted by the Waste Prevention Agency to discuss not only this specific topic but also the implementation of circular criteria in document printing. This involves extending the lifespan of devices and reusing consumables to reduce both economic and environmental costs. ETIRA recognizes and appreciates the commitment of the Catalan Waste Agency (ARC) and the Center for Telecommunications and Information Technologies (CTTI) in leading the ‘Circular Economy’ initiative,” stated ETIRA.
A cornerstone of the new law is the ban on single-use printer cartridges and toners, effective January 1, 2025. This measure is part of a broader prohibition on single-use items and non-recyclable products. Other significant bans include:
- Prohibition of single-use plastic utensils and food containers in restaurants.
- Ban on the sale and distribution of products containing micro and nanoplastics.
- Large food retailers are required to allocate 20% of their sales area to bulk or reusable packaging.
- Ban on providing plastic bags of any thickness at points of sale and for home deliveries.
- Prohibition on non-rechargeable razors in the Catalan market from January 1, 2025.
Catalonia, located in northeastern Spain, is a significant economic powerhouse contributing substantially to the country’s GDP. With its capital, Barcelona, Catalonia boasts diverse commercial activities, including manufacturing, services, tourism, and technology.
The region is renowned for its dynamic industrial sector, encompassing the automotive, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. Catalonia’s ports, particularly the Port of Barcelona, serve as crucial hubs for international trade, facilitating extensive import and export activities.
These bans are aligned with Catalonia’s goal to reduce waste and promote the reuse of materials, fostering a culture that moves away from single-use products.
ETIRA’s collaboration with Catalonia’s authorities signifies a solid commitment to a sustainable future. The new law sets a precedent for other regions by incorporating circular economy principles in document printing, highlighting the importance of innovation and responsibility in waste management.