As part of its environmental policies, the European Union is preparing to gradually ban the use of single-use stretch luggage wrapping film used for baggage security at airports. The practice is targeted to be completely phased out by 2030.
The European Union (EU) is preparing to end the use of stretch luggage wrapping film that has been used at airports for many years, in line with its environmental sustainability goals. Made from single-use plastic and difficult to recycle, this practice is planned to be gradually banned on the grounds that it generates a significant amount of plastic waste.
The transparent plastic film tightly wrapped around suitcases is frequently preferred by passengers as it makes baggage harder to open and helps prevent theft and damage. However, according to experts, these plastics are discarded after use, cause lasting harm to the environment, and create major problems in waste management.
Target: Reducing Packaging Waste
This step by the EU is being taken within the scope of Regulation No. 94/62/EC, which aims to reduce packaging waste. The regulation envisages the gradual ban of single-use plastic packaging used at airports. Stretch luggage wrapping film is also being assessed within this scope.
According to the plan, the implementation will be gradually introduced by 2027, and as of 2030, the use of stretch film will be completely banned. During this process, airports and passengers are expected to turn to more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions.
Some Airports in Germany Have Already Banned It
Some European airports have already completely halted the use of stretch film without waiting for the timetable set by the EU. Hannover Airport in Germany does not accept baggage wrapped in stretch film and does not allow check-in procedures for suitcases prepared in this way.
Airport officials state that stretch film can stick to baggage handling belts, causing technical malfunctions, disrupting loading processes, and creating a serious environmental burden in terms of waste management.
A similar practice has also been implemented at Kassel Airport. Officials stated that they took this decision due to the high volume of plastic waste and operational problems.
Alternative Solutions for Passengers Come to the Fore
Environmentally friendly baggage security solutions that can be used instead of stretch film are becoming increasingly widespread. These include;
- Durable luggage straps,
- TSA-approved locks,
- Reusable luggage covers, which stand out among the leading options.
TSA locks, in particular, prevent unauthorised opening of baggage while allowing officials to open the lock with special keys during security checks. In this way, inspections can be carried out without damaging the suitcase or the lock.
Reusable luggage covers provide protection against scratches and external impacts while also eliminating the need for single-use plastic, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
A Sustainable Baggage Era Begins
With the EU’s regulation on stretch luggage wrapping film, more sustainable baggage security practices are expected to become standard at airports in the coming years. Experts state that this step will contribute both to reducing environmental impacts and to the green transformation of the aviation sector.
