Wilhelmshaven is discussing again: Is the disposable packaging tax coming?

Wilhelmshaven is discussing again: Is the disposable packaging tax coming?

The discussion about a municipal disposable packaging tax in Wilhelmshaven has reignited. The FDP/Free Voters are committed to putting the issue back on the agenda. This is an initiative that originally comes from the population. However, in August 2023, the Council rejected the introduction of this tax. Thomas Lehmann from the FDP makes it clear that the aim of the tax is not only to minimize waste, but also to generate positive income for the city. A look at other cities shows that such a measure can certainly bear fruit - Tübingen receives one million euros annually from this tax. NWZ Online reports that the Federal Constitutional Court has already confirmed the legality of this tax.

The single-use packaging tax could play an important role, especially at a time when cities are trying to reduce their waste in a variety of ways. However, Anja Mandt from the CDU remains skeptical and speaks out against any additional burden on local businesses.

Waiting for money from the single-use plastic fund

Wilhelmshaven is also eagerly awaiting money from the single-use plastic fund, which came into force in 2024. Manufacturers of certain single-use plastics must pay fees that are used to finance waste management and cleaning public spaces. The city registered for the fund in December 2024, but no money has been received yet. An employee was hired to refinance this area through the fund. However, the processing of the application is delayed because the city administration has to provide further information by the end of the year. These uncertainties are also exacerbating the current debate about the packaging tax.

Interestingly, a new legal opinion from German Environmental Aid shows that the introduction of a municipal packaging tax and the single-use plastic fund does not lead to double taxation, as does the case German environmental aid emphasized. Attention is drawn to the rights of cities to impose such taxes to reduce the use of single-use products.

The view of the economy

However, there are concerns from the business community. The Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK) warns that the municipal packaging tax could represent an additional bureaucratic burden for companies. According to a DIHK study, companies in the hospitality industry spend up to 14 hours per week on legal requirements. Many small and medium-sized companies have to adapt to different municipal statutes and tax rates, which increases the bureaucratic effort. But the tax is not only intended to increase revenue, but also act as an incentive to switch to reusable packaging.

The future remains uncertain. While supporters argue that the tax helps to avoid waste, opponents fear a financial burden on citizens and restaurants. A solution to the current challenges is being sought. Positive incentives for reusable packaging, the expansion of return and cleaning structures and advisory services could be helpful approaches. Everyone involved is called upon to develop pragmatic solutions and get the city on the right course DIHK.