The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is the long-awaited revision of the EU Packaging Directive.
It brings far-reaching changes for manufacturers and distributors of packaging.
Read this article to find out more about the new packaging directive, its objectives and the challenges facing companies and retailers.
The most important facts in brief
- PPWR - New EU packaging regulation: The PPWR replaces the previous Packaging Directive 94/62/EC and aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste.
Preparations are therefore necessary for packaging companies. - Objectives of the PPWR: Reduce resource consumption, increase recycling rates, improve traceability and harmonize regulations within the EU.
- Status and schedule: Here you can find the current status of the PPWR.
- Measures: Reduction of single-use plastic, promotion of reusable packaging, introduction of deposit systems, mandatory recycling quotas, promotion of recycled materials and strict labeling requirements.
- Effects and preparation: Companies need to adapt their packaging, which requires investment and conversion.
Comprehensive preparation and partnerships with recycling companies are necessary.
What is the PPWR?
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation is an EU-wide regulation that aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste.
This regulation sets new standards for the design, production and recycling of packaging in order to minimize the environmental footprint of the European Union.
The PPWR ensures that packaging is used more efficiently and that recycling rates are significantly increased.
The new regulation replaces the previous Packaging Directive 94/62/EC and represents a more comprehensive and stricter regulation.
It contains binding recycling rates, requirements for reusability and recyclability as well as labeling requirements for packaging.
PPWR Update: What is the current status?
The draft EU packaging regulation PPWR was submitted to the European Council for approval in March 2024.
The European Parliament had scheduled a provisional vote on the PPWR for April 24, 2024.
The result was 476 votes in favor to 129 against.
As the final wording still has to undergo a linguistic and legal review, the new Parliament and the Council will have to formally approve the revised version again after the EU elections.
The final version of the PPWR is expected to be completed in the fall of 2024.
Objectives of the PPWR
The overall aim of the PPWR is to strengthen the circular economy for packaging in the European Union and to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste.
Specifically, the following goals are to be achieved:
- Reduction of resource consumption and the ecological footprint,
- Increasing recycling rates and promoting reuse,
- Improving traceability and transparency in the supply chain,
- and harmonization of regulations within the EU.
The implementation of the PPWR is intended to conserve resources, reduce emissions and minimize environmental impact.
At the same time, the competitiveness of the European packaging industry is to be strengthened and cross-border trade facilitated.
When does the EU Packaging Regulation come into force?
Following its adoption by the European Parliament in April 2024, the PPWR will probably come into force at the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026.
From this date, all affected companies will have to comply with the new regulations and adapt their processes accordingly.
There will be a transitional period to give companies enough time to implement the necessary changes.
PPWR Timeline in brief
2022 | 2023
Publication of the draft of the new Packaging Directive by the EU.
March 2024
Preparation of Member States and companies for the new regulations.
April 24, 2024
Adoption of the EU Packaging Regulation by the European Parliament.
End 2025 | beginning 2026
Official entry into force of the PPWR.
2026 | 2027
Transition period for the adaptation and implementation of the measures.
2027
Initial review and adjustment of recycling targets.
2030
Target year for full implementation of the ordinance and achievement of all specified recycling quotas.
What measures does the EU Packaging Regulation contain?
The EU Packaging Regulation provides for a range of measures to achieve the targets set.
These include
- Reduction of single-use plastic packaging
- Incentives for the development of reusable packaging systems
- Introduction of deposit systems for certain packaging
- Mandatory and binding recycling quotas for packaging waste and materials by 2030
- Promoting the use of recycled materials in new packaging
- Requirements for the design of packaging to improve its recyclability
- Labeling requirements for packaging for traceability
- Incentives to promote eco-design and the circular economy in the packaging industry
These measures are intended to encourage companies to adapt their packaging to the new requirements and develop innovative solutions such as reusable packaging.
At the same time, consumers will gain more transparency about the composition and recyclability of packaging.
The effects of the PPWR
The PPWR will have a far-reaching impact on the packaging industry, retailers and consumers.
Companies will have to adapt their packaging to the new requirements, which may involve investments and changes in production.
At the same time, new business models and innovations in the area of reusable packaging will be promoted, which offers opportunities for companies that are early adopters of this development.
For consumers, the PPWR means more transparency about the composition and recyclability of packaging, which can influence their purchasing decisions.
Overall, the harmonization of regulations within the EU leads to a simplification of cross-border trade and an improved recycling infrastructure.
Who does the EU Packaging Regulation apply to?
The EU Packaging Regulation applies to all actors along the packaging supply chain in the European Union.
This includes manufacturers of packaging and packaged products, importers of packaging and packaged products, retailers and distributors of packaged products, operators of waste collection systems and recycling facilities as well as consumers who dispose of packaging waste.
It does not matter whether they are large industrial companies or smaller businesses.
All of these players must observe and implement the new PPWR regulations.
For manufacturers and importers, for example, this means that they must adapt their packaging to the new requirements.
Retailers and distributors must ensure that the products they sell comply with the labeling requirements.
How can companies prepare for the PPWR?
To prepare for the PPWR, companies should:
- Carry out an inventory of your current packaging processes
- Evaluate sustainable packaging solutions and materials
- Entering into partnerships with recycling companies
- Train employees on the new regulations
- Planning investments in new technologies and processes
Which packaging is covered by the new Packaging Ordinance?
The PPWR applies to all packaging regardless of the material (plastic, glass, metal, paper, etc.). It includes sales packaging, outer packaging and transport packaging. Exceptions to individual requirements may apply to certain packaging such as medical devices or packaging for hazardous substances. Imported packaging must also meet the requirements of the PPWR. Manufacturers from third countries must appoint an authorized representative in the EU.
What prohibitions apply under the PPWR?
The PPWR does not provide for any direct bans on specific packaging. However, all packaging placed on the market in the EU must meet certain requirements in terms of reusability, recyclability and labeling. Packaging that does not meet these requirements is therefore likely to be indirectly excluded from the market. In addition, the EU member states can issue their own national measures such as bans or restrictions on certain packaging within the framework of the PPWR. For example, certain single-use plastic packaging or other packaging with a high environmental impact could be banned if it does not meet reusability and recyclability requirements.
How to find support during this process
The implementation of the EU Packaging Regulation presents many companies and manufacturers with new challenges. As a leading manufacturer of industrial coding and marking systems, Diagraph offers comprehensive support for the implementation of PPWR requirements. Diagraph covers numerous industries and applications that are relevant for PPWR - whether carton labeling, plastic labeling or food labeling. From the initial consultation to full implementation, Diagraph is your reliable partner and offers comprehensive support for all your projects and processes.
FAQ - Answers to frequently asked questions
PPWR summary: The Packaging Ordinance in brief
The EU Packaging Regulation, also known as the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), includes a wide range of regulations aimed at reducing packaging waste and promoting the reuse and recycling of packaging. This includes requirements for the design and manufacture of packaging as well as regulations on disposal and recycling.
What potential does the PPWR have?
The PPWR has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of packaging. By introducing stricter regulations and promoting sustainable packaging solutions, companies can reduce their environmental footprint and increase their competitiveness at the same time. The PPWR also offers opportunities for innovation in the field of sustainable packaging technologies.
Why is the PPWR necessary?
The new EU packaging regulation is necessary in order to get the growing volumes of packaging waste under control and to promote the circular economy for packaging. Despite existing regulations such as the Packaging Directive 94/62/EC, packaging consumption has risen continuously in recent years. At the same time, the recycling rates for many packaging materials are still too low.
