Amsterdam studies a ban on disposable packaging after research finds it legally possible

23 October 2026

The city of Amsterdam is examining a ban on disposable packaging such as coffee cups and fast-food containers. Research commissioned by the municipality found such a ban legally feasible. Lian Heinhuis, the alderman for waste management and cleaning, said these items make up 30 per cent of all litter in the city. The research said a ban could only follow a system of reusable takeaway packaging with collection points for returns. It described a ban as a last resort after other measures such as more frequent street cleaning. Single-use plastic waste is heaviest in busy, tourist-heavy parts of the city.