Dr Carsten Brodesser, Member of the German Bundestag, visits Jokey: a discussion on the circular economy, competitiveness and the future of the packaging industry
In particular, the proposed introduction of a national excise duty on plastic packaging – currently under discussion in Berlin – and its potential impact on industry, investment and the transition to a circular economy played a central role. The discussion was based on the latest scientific findings and Jokey’s practical experience as one of the leading manufacturers of sustainable plastic packaging.
The participants agreed that the goals of resource conservation and climate protection, as well as the development of a functioning circular economy, must be further advanced. Jokey outlined the company’s substantial investments in recyclable packaging solutions, the use of recycled materials and closed-loop material cycles. At the same time, concerns were raised that additional burdens resulting from a national plastic tax could weaken Germany’s competitiveness as an industrial location and hinder investment in innovative circular economy solutions. An excise duty on plastic packaging would also increase costs along the value chain and, in many cases, result in higher consumer prices. The study findings presented also indicate that a flat-rate plastic tax could create misguided environmental incentives and that alternative policy instruments would be more effective.
Jens Stadter, CEO of the Jokey Group, emphasises: “The transition to a genuine circular economy can only succeed if environmental effectiveness and economic competitiveness are considered together. We welcome the open dialogue with policymakers and their willingness to incorporate the industry’s experiences into the ongoing discussion.”
Dr Carsten Brodesser took the opportunity to find out first-hand about ongoing developments, technological advances and the challenges facing this sector, which is characterised by small and medium-sized enterprises. Direct dialogue between the political and business communities plays a vital role in developing practical and sustainable solutions for Germany’s future as a business location.
The Jokey Group would like to thank Dr Carsten Brodesser for his visit and for the constructive and objective dialogue.
