Please note: the information in the following article applies exclusively to the Netherlands.

The Dutch rules for single-use cups and containers that contain plastic are being changed. The reason for this is that the current rules have proven to be too complicated in practice and not always easy to implement. However, the goal remains the same: less single-use plastic and less litter in the environment.

On-site consumption

For on-site consumption, reusable alternatives remain the standard.

In offices, businesses and educational institutions, the ban on single-use cups and containers containing plastic will remain in place. The existing exemption will be removed. Organisations that have already registered with the ILT will have until 31 December 2026 to adapt. Organisations that have not registered must comply with the ban.

For sectors where reusable alternatives are more difficult to implement, an exemption will remain possible. This includes hospitality businesses, closed events, theme parks and sports clubs, for example. They may continue to use single-use cups and containers containing plastic, but only under certain conditions. They must collect them separately, send them for recycling, register with the ILT and keep records of this.

An important relaxation is that the requirement will change from high-quality recycling to recycling. As a result, paper or cardboard coffee cups with a plastic coating may also fall under the exemption. In addition, there will no longer be a lower or upper limit for the percentage of plastic in the cup or container.

Consumption on the go / To Go

For To Go, single-use packaging will remain permitted. The mandatory surcharge for single-use cups and containers containing plastic will be abolished.

However, a reusable alternative must still be offered. From 12 February 2027, this obligation will be tightened further. This could include accepting a customer’s own cup or offering a reusable return system.

The change to the regulation will be initiated in 2026. The aim is for the new rules to take effect in 2027.

In summary

To Go: single-use cups containing plastic may continue to be used. The mandatory surcharge will disappear, but offering a reusable alternative will remain mandatory.

On-site consumption: reusable alternatives remain the standard. Offices, businesses and educational institutions must switch to reusable options. Hospitality businesses, closed events, theme parks and sports clubs may continue to use single-use cups with a plastic coating under certain conditions, provided they register with the ILT and can demonstrate collection and recycling.