From 1 July 2026, Potsdam will introduce a packaging tax on single-use packaging. The aim is to promote reusable packaging and improve the cleanliness of the city.
From 1 July 2026, a new packaging tax will be introduced in Potsdam, targeting single-use packaging for food and drinks. This measure aims to improve cleanliness in public spaces and reduce the use of disposable packaging. The tax is primarily aimed at final sellers offering „to go“ food and drinks, and provides for differentiated tax rates: €0.50 per unit for single-use packaging such as cups, plates, or bowls, and €0.20 per unit for single-use cutlery.
Sustainability and city cleanliness in focus
Mayor and Treasurer Burkhard Exner emphasises that while the introduction of the tax will require adjustments for many businesses, it simultaneously opens up opportunities to make packaging solutions more sustainable. „The tax provides clear incentives for more reusable packaging and thus contributes to greater cleanliness and sustainability in the urban landscape,“ said Exner. Businesses that consistently opt for reusable packaging or forgo single-use altogether are exempt from the tax, as are single-use packaging items that are subject to a statutory deposit.
Inclusion of diverse interests
In drafting the packaging tax ordinance, various interest groups were involved, including the Potsdam Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the Potsdam Chamber of Crafts, and the Berlin-Brandenburg Retail Association. This collaboration is intended to ensure that diverse economic and consumer-related interests are taken into account. The city administration also plans comprehensive information offerings to support businesses during the transition. An information event in May aims to clarify open questions and provide practical guidance.
Role model effect and expected revenue
The introduction of the packaging tax in Potsdam is based on the Experiences of other cities like Tübingen, which has already levied a similar tax since early 2022. Konstanz and Freiburg im Breisgau have also introduced comparable regulations. From 2027, Potsdam expects annual revenues of around one million euros from the packaging tax. This money could be channelled into further measures to improve city cleanliness and into ecological projects.
Source: City of Potsdam
