EU directives encourage free tap water in restaurants to reduce plastic use; various countries show different approaches and challenges.
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A project inspired partly by an EU directive encouraging free or low-cost tap water in restaurants aimed to mandate that from July 2026, establishments must provide at least 0.5 liters of tap water for free. Currently, this is optional, and most eateries still sell bottled water. The Polish party PSL opposed the amendment, citing concerns about providing potable tap water everywhere. Proponents argue that such regulations promote tap water consumption and reduce plastic waste, noting that free tap water is standard practice in many countries. Examples include Czechia, where complimentary tap water is often served with meals, and Spain, which enacted a law to mandate free tap water to curb single-use bottles. In contrast, Bulgarian restaurant associations express concerns over the costs associated with providing free water, arguing it is not truly free due to operational expenses, though some establishments are voluntarily offering it as a gesture to customers.
