CSU fights EU’s plastic cap rule in Europe’s policy debate

CSU rejects EU’s plastic bottle cap rule, calling it impractical and disruptive

The CSU has taken a firm stance against an EU regulation requiring attached plastic bottle caps. At their recent party conference in Munich, delegates voted overwhelmingly to scrap the rule, calling it impractical and disruptive. The move comes as part of broader criticism of EU policies from within the party.

The EU directive, introduced in 2021 and fully enforced since 2024, mandates that all single-use plastic bottles must have caps permanently fixed to them. The CSU argues that this requirement offers little real benefit while causing significant inconvenience for consumers. Party officials claim the rule is cumbersome and risks undermining public support for the EU.

Before the EU regulation took effect, the CSU highlights that Germany already had a well-functioning deposit system in place. Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder has been particularly vocal, previously stating that the rule even endangers his health. The party’s motion now calls on its members in the European Parliament to push for amendments to the directive.

The issue was raised during the CSU’s party conference, where delegates formally voted to abolish the EU mandate. The conference was also marked by Söder’s reelection as party leader, securing 83.6% of the vote. Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz has echoed the criticism, suggesting Europe should prioritise other policy areas instead.

The CSU’s decision reflects growing frustration with the EU’s approach to plastic waste regulations. The party will now push for changes at the European level, arguing that the attached cap rule does more harm than good. The outcome could influence broader debates on EU environmental policies in the coming months.