To harmonize extended producer responsibility and environmental labelling obligations among EU Member States, the European Union issued the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, which was officially published in the Journal of the European Union on January 22, 2025. This regulation will take effect on February 11, 2025, with enforcement commencing on August 12, 2026. It will replace the current Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (Directive 94/62/EEC).
Recyclability: By 2030, all packaging must be recyclable, adhering to specific design for recycling (DfR) criteria and recyclability performance grades. Packaging with a recyclability grade below 70% will not be considered recyclable. In addition, extended producer responsibility fees will be adjusted based on the performance grade.
Recycled Content: By 2040, there will be stricter targets for the amount of recycled content in plastic packaging. For example, PET food packaging should contain 30% recycled content by 2030, and 50% by 2040.
Packaging Minimization: By 2030, packaging must be reduced to the bare minimum necessary for its function. This includes banning packaging that simply increases the perceived volume of the product.
Single-Use Packaging: Several types of single-use packaging will be banned by 2030. This ban includes certain plastic packaging formats commonly used by retailers and in the HORECA sectors (hotels, restaurants, catering).
Re-use and Re-fill Targets: Companies must offer reusable and refillable packaging options. By 2029, deposit and return schemes (DRS) will be set up for single-use plastic beverage bottles and metal containers.
Environmental Labelling: New labelling requirements will help consumers correctly sort and recycle packaging. These labels will provide information on the material composition, reusability, and collection points.
The PPWR aims to create a more sustainable packaging system in the EU, but it can also pose significant challenges for the industry. At DQS, we’re here to support companies through this transformative journey. Together, let’s power a greener tomorrow!
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