10 Key Requirements of the PPWR Regulation for Packaging

The PPWR Regulation is bringing about lasting changes to packaging requirements in Europe. Eco-friendly design, recyclability, material traceability, reuse, and regulatory compliance are becoming strategic priorities for all players in the packaging supply chain. Anticipating these changes not only ensures regulatory compliance but also aligns packaging solutions with a commitment to sustainable performance.

1. Packaging designed to be recyclable by 2030

By 2030, all packaging placed on the European market will have to meet strict recyclability criteria. This requirement applies to all materials, including paper, cardboard, plastic, and composite materials.

In practical terms, packaging must be designed from the outset to integrate with existing collection, sorting, and recycling systems, while ensuring the quality of the resulting recycled materials.

2. A minimum percentage of recycled material in plastic packaging

The PPWR requires the gradual incorporation of recycled materials into plastic packaging in order to reduce dependence on virgin materials.

Minimum thresholds will apply depending on the type of packaging, with stricter targets taking effect starting in 2040. This measure aims to accelerate the development of a circular economy and secure markets for recycled materials.

3. Reduce the weight and volume of packaging

Companies will be required to limit the weight and volume of packaging to what is strictly necessary.

Outer packaging, excessive empty space, and purely marketing-driven elements that artificially increase the perceived volume will be gradually phased out. The goal is twofold: to reduce resource consumption and optimize logistics flows.

4. Incorporate reuse from the design phase

The regulation strongly encourages the development of reusable packaging.

To be considered reusable, packaging must be designed to withstand multiple cycles of use under normal conditions without losing functionality or compromising performance.

5. Provide information about the contents of the packaging

Packaging must include clear information about the materials used in its manufacture.

The goal of this harmonization of labeling is to improve understanding among end users and to make it easier to sort waste throughout Europe.

6. Better communicate about opportunities for reuse

Packaging must include clear information about the materials used in its manufacture.

The goal of this harmonization of labeling is to improve understanding among end users and to make it easier to sort waste throughout Europe.

7. Promote the reuse of shipping packaging

Packaging must include clear information about the materials used in its manufacture.

The goal of this harmonization of labeling is to improve understanding among end users and to make it easier to sort waste throughout Europe.

8. Provide a European Declaration of Conformity

Packaging must include clear information about the materials used in its manufacture.

The goal of this harmonization of labeling is to improve understanding among end users and to make it easier to sort waste throughout Europe.

9. Reduce per capita packaging waste

The regulation sets packaging waste reduction targets for each Member State.

These targets follow a phased approach, with reductions expected by 2030, 2035, and 2040, in order to sustainably reverse the growth in the volume of packaging generated in Europe.

10. Meet enhanced recycling targets

Member States will be required to meet minimum recycling rates for packaging waste, with progressive short- and medium-term targets.

This measure aims to harmonize environmental performance across the European Union and increase the availability of high-quality secondary materials.