All operators in the catering sector offering takeaway meals are required to register with BDO. Registration allows the control and recording of plastic packaging, which will eventually become waste.
Being able to monitor the flow of packaging will help to make the right decisions for more effective waste management. It is also a duty to keep data up to date that reflects the actual situation and to keep detailed records separate for each business location. Failure to keep records can expose the company to heavy financial penalties.
Obligations under the SUP Directive.
The SUP Directive aims not only to reduce the use of single-use plastic products and replace them with alternative packaging, but also to raise public awareness of the correct handling of waste from single-use plastic products. Appropriate marking or labelling informing about their proper recycling or disposal will help to avoid mistakes. At the same time, there is the possibility of obtaining ecological certificates, which will confirm that the entity wants to have an impact on environmental protection.
Update the application in the BDO system.
An up-to-date and reliable record of the packaging offered is necessary to determine the quantities and types of disposable packaging placed on the market. This involves updating the application in which we determine the actual status.
Applications must be in accordance with the latest guidelines from the Ministry of the Environment, which requires consultation with experts or inspectors from the Marshal's Office.
Annual reports for catering operators.
The obligation to report annually in the BDO system applies to all catering companies. The report specifies the quantity and type of disposable packaging placed on the market.
We also take into account the fees resulting from the marketing of packaging, i.e. the product fee, the consumer fee and the recycling fee.
Failure to submit the report by the statutory deadline may result in a financial penalty.
The report should specify the quantity and type of packaging introduced, which is reflected in the reliable records we keep. The records should be clear, complete, supported by purchase and sales documents and available for inspection by authorised bodies.
Changes to the legislation should be monitored on an ongoing basis for implementation.
Product charge
A product fee is a type of charge levied on an entrepreneur when he or she introduces a product in packaging, regardless of the material of the packaging in question.
It is intended to cover the costs associated with recycling and disposal of packaging waste. It is a kind of „penalty” that is intended to encourage not only retailers, but also manufacturers, importers and distributors to use methods that reduce the amount of packaging they put on the market. It involves the introduction of ecological solutions that will ultimately benefit both the environment and the company's image.
Consumer charge for single-use plastic packaging.
According to the amendment, operators of a retail, wholesale or catering unit, where single-use plastic packaging such as beverage and food containers are offered, are obliged as of 01.01.2024 to collect a charge from end users who purchase these products or the packaging itself. This charge is called the consumer charge. An end user is an entity that purchases these products for its own use, without further resale.
The consumer charge applies to disposable cups and food containers made of plastic.
In addition to the obligation to file a report stating what packaging the company has placed on the market and in what quantity, it is also obliged to pay a consumer fee. The fee will be paid to a separate bank account of the marshal of the voivodship having jurisdiction over the place where the aforementioned fee is collected.
It is intended to discourage the end customer from purchasing such packaging, but also to encourage the use of alternative packaging. The consumer levy will be submitted by catering operators to the Marshal's Office once a year by 15 March.
Recycling fee for the introduction of plastic bags above 15 microns.
Reliable record-keeping does not only apply to packaging placed on the market, but also includes plastic bags above 15 microns.
The number of commercial bags introduced must be declared annually in a report, while the recycling fee must be paid to the relevant Marshal's Office on a quarterly basis. The purpose of the recycling levy is to encourage more environmentally friendly solutions and to switch to paper or reusable bags for our own and the environment's benefit, of course.
De minimis aid.
Catering operators accounting for the packaging introduced have the possibility of benefiting from de minimis aid. This is financial assistance for small and medium-sized enterprises. We can thus reduce the costs associated with our compliance with the legal requirements for the introduction of disposable packaging. To be eligible for de minimis aid, an entity must meet certain criteria and submit documents by 15 March each year.
Required reporting and updating of information in the BDO system.
The data in the BDO system should be updated on an ongoing basis, indicating the current status. This applies both to the packaging carried out - the types of packaging - but also to the waste generated in connection with the activity.
It is the responsibility of all entities registered in the system to report in a timely manner, which is crucial for legal compliance.
Reliable and up-to-date records will also contribute to a reliable determination of the amount of packaging entered and is the basis for correct reporting.
It is also necessary to carry out internal audits that identify the changes that are taking place in the company.
Penalty for non-reporting.
Financial as well as legal consequences can be imposed on all entities found to be lacking in reporting. Whether a company complies with the regulations is a testament to its credibility and social responsibility.
Failure to do so can involve both loss of business partners and customers.
EkoPro Group - Your Partner in Environmental Protection
The complexities of the regulations relating to BDOs and the SUP Directive can be overwhelming. That's why we are here to help you. EkoPro Group is a team of experienced professionals who will take care of your environmental responsibilities comprehensively.
What we can do for you:
- Registration and updating of data in BDO: We will take care of all the formalities so that your company is always compliant.
- Keeping records of packaging and waste: We will provide reliable and clear documentation to facilitate your reporting.
- Preparation of annual reports: We will prepare complete and timely reports, taking into account all the required information.
- Accounting for product, consumer and recycling charges: We will help you calculate and pay all the fees due.
- Advice on cost optimisation: We will suggest ways to reduce waste and lower packaging costs.
- Assistance in obtaining de minimis aid: We will check if you are eligible for financial support and help you to apply.
