#None #BMI Korea #Reusable Packaging #EU regulation

The European Union's Reusable Packaging Regulation: Who Will Clean the Cups?

Starting February 12, 2028, all restaurants in the European Union must offer reusable containers for takeout food. While this initiative is a significant step towards sustainability and reducing waste, it raises a pressing question: who will handle the washing of millions of cups circulating in the European economy?

According to BMI Korea, a company specializing in high-pressure washing systems with 30 years of experience, the challenge lies not in collection but in effective cleaning. With a staggering 79.7 million tons of packaging waste generated in the EU in 2023, equating to an average of 177.8 kg per resident, the need for a robust washing infrastructure is evident. Only 42.1% of plastic containers were recycled last year, and the global demand for disposable cups is poised to reach 491 billion units by 2028.

The United Kingdom alone consumes 7 million cups daily, generating 30,000 tons of waste each year. Data from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) indicates that reusable cups can cut emissions by up to 69% compared to single-use options. However, the EU's Waste Framework Directive mandates that waste must be reduced by 5% by the year 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040. Unfortunately, much of Europe lacks the necessary washing infrastructure to support this shift.

BMI Korea claims to have addressed this cleaning issue with its HPW-5000 high-pressure washer, designed to clean up to 5,000 reusable cups per hour at 50 bar pressure—five times faster than manual methods. This innovative system can be installed at the beginning of existing washing lines without requiring comprehensive replacements. In Korea, it has successfully replaced 4 to 5 workers per line for over two years, significantly enhancing efficiency. Plans are in place to deliver a unit to Japan by October this year.

BMI Korea boasts 89 installations across 28 countries, servicing major bottled water brands worldwide. Sang Koo Lee, the CEO of BMI Korea, emphasizes, "Reusable cups can reduce emissions by 69%, but only if operators can clean them quickly. Europe has set the deadline but not built the necessary washing capacity, presenting a crisis we must address."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the system currently in operation?
In Korea, the system has been operational for over two years. A unit is scheduled for delivery to Japan in October 2026, with more than 89 installations across 28 countries.

What problem does it solve?
The main hindrance is manual pre-washing, where employees scrub cups by hand. This is both slow and inconsistent. The HPW-5000 automates the process, achieving speeds five times faster and replacing 4 to 5 workers per line.

About BMI Korea

BMIKOREA (BMI4R CO., LTD) specializes in high-pressure washing equipment and has more than 89 installations in 28 countries. For more information, visit www.bottlewasher.ai.kr.