Changes to how cafés and food outlets serve takeaway drinks will come into force from 2027 under the new EU regulation on packaging and packaging waste.
Speaking to Politis, former Green Party MP and former Environment Commissioner Charalambos Theopemptou explained that Regulation (EU) 2025/40, known as the PPWR, is not a directive but a regulation. This means it will apply directly in all EU member states without needing national legislation. However, Cyprus will still need to define enforcement mechanisms, responsible authorities and penalties for violations.
First phase: 2027
The first major change for cafés takes effect on February 12, 2027. From that date, businesses selling takeaway drinks will be required to accept and fill containers or cups brought by customers.
In simple terms, consumers will be able to bring their own cup to a café, and the business will be obliged to serve them.
Theopemptou stressed, however, that implementation will not be straightforward. Businesses will need clear procedures for handling customer containers, especially regarding hygiene.
Key questions include:
- What happens if a customer brings an unclean or unsuitable container?
- How will hygiene standards be maintained during preparation?
- How will drink quantities be measured accurately?
Businesses will need to prepare in advance, train staff and provide clear information at the point of sale. Customers must also be informed about acceptable container types, hygiene requirements and their own responsibilities when using personal containers.
Second phase: 2028
The next step comes on February 12, 2028.
In addition to accepting customers’ own containers, businesses will also need to offer reusable packaging options, such as cups available through return or deposit systems.
Very small businesses are exempt, typically those with:
- fewer than 10 employees
- annual turnover or balance sheet up to €2 million
Goal: cut plastic waste
According to Theopemptou, the objective is to reduce single-use packaging, especially plastic waste that ends up in nature and the sea.
Asked whether the changes are worth it, he was clear:
“It is absolutely worth the effort.”
He noted that EU measures on single-use plastics are based on extensive research into waste found on beaches, in the natural environment and in marine ecosystems.
Next milestone: 2030
Changes will continue beyond takeaway.
From January 1, 2030, single-use plastic packaging will be banned for food and drinks consumed on-site in HORECA businesses, including hotels, restaurants and cafés.
The only exception will be for establishments without access to potable water.
