Engångsartikel

Engångsartikel is a term used in Swedish to describe products intended for one-time use and subsequent disposal after a single use. These items are designed for convenience, hygiene, and cost efficiency, and they are widely used in food service, healthcare, events, and consumer packaging. The life cycle of engångsartiklar typically covers production, distribution, use, and disposal, with limited durability.

Common examples include disposable cutlery, plates, cups, napkins, straws, shopping bags, razors, medical disposables, and various packaging materials. Materials vary by product and can include plastics such as polypropylene or polystyrene, paper and cardboard, wood fiber, or biobased films and compostable plastics. Some engångsartiklar are certified as compostable or biodegradable, but disposal conditions matter for end-of-life fate.

Environmental considerations are central to discussions of engångsartiklar. Because many items end up as litter or plastic waste, there is emphasis on waste reduction, recycling challenges, and the development of reusable alternatives. Policies at national and European levels aim to curb plastic pollution and promote proper waste management, labeling, and producer responsibility. In practice, the environmental footprint depends on material, production, use patterns, and whether the item is recycled or composted in an appropriate facility.

See also: single-use plastics, disposable goods, sustainable consumption, circular economy.