Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)

What You Need to Know

At Embacollage, we are committed to delivering solutions that not only meet your brand requirements but also comply with the latest European regulations. The new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) brings significant changes to how packaging is designed, produced, and managed across its entire lifecycle.

 

What is the PPWR?

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is a comprehensive EU regulation that replaces the previous Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC). Entering into force on 11 February 2025, the PPWR sets out harmonized requirements for all packaging placed on the EU market, covering manufacturing, composition, recyclability, and waste management.

 

Key Objectives of the PPWR

  • Prevent and reduce packaging waste by promoting reuse and refill systems.
  • Ensure all packaging is recyclable in an economically viable way by 2030.
  • Increase the use of recycled materials and decrease reliance on virgin raw materials.
  • Support the transition to a circular, sustainable, and competitive economy.
  • Harmonize rules across the EU, eliminating national discrepancies and facilitating the free movement of goods.

 

Who Does the PPWR Affect?

The regulation applies to all packaging and packaging waste in the EU, regardless of the material or sector (commercial, household, or industrial). This includes both domestic producers and importers placing packaging on the EU market.

 

What Does This Mean for our Clients?

  • All packaging must be designed for recyclability and comply with stricter requirements for material use and waste prevention.
  • Packaging made from plastic must include a minimum proportion of recycled (post-consumer recycled, PCR) material by set deadlines.
  • Producers are responsible for ensuring their packaging meets these new requirements, including the use of recycled content and participation in extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes.

 

PPWR Implementation Timeline

Below is an overview of the key dates for the PPWR and its main requirements:

Regulation/Requirement

 

Effective Date

 

Description

PPWR enters into force

 

11/Feb/25

 

Regulation adopted, replacing the previous directive.

General application of PPWR

 

12/Aug/26

 

Main provisions start to apply 18 months after entry into force.

All packaging must be recyclable

 

01/Jan/30

 

Packaging must be recyclable in an economically viable way.

Recyclability at scale obligation

 

01/Jan/35

 

Packaging must be recyclable at scale, not just in theory.

5% reduction in packaging waste

 

By 2030

 

Compared to 2018 levels, each member state must achieve a 5% reduction.

15% reduction in packaging waste

 

By 2040

 

Compared to 2018 levels, each member state must achieve a 15% reduction.

Climate neutrality target

 

By 2050

 

Packaging sector on track to climate neutrality.

 

Our Commitment

We are proactively adapting our products and processes to ensure full compliance with the PPWR. Whether you choose from our standard collection or require bespoke packaging and POS materials with your brand logo, we guarantee that our solutions will meet the latest regulatory and sustainability standards.

If you have questions about how the PPWR affects your packaging or need support in transitioning to compliant solutions, our team is ready to assist you.

This summary is based on the latest available information from the European Commission and industry sources. For detailed guidance tailored to your specific needs, please contact us directly.