We have already written about the adoption of this Regulation, which introduces at the level of law both normative indicators for the use and recycling of various types of packaging, as well as many definitions, conditions for labeling and collection. We strongly recommend that everyone who is in any way connected with packaging read its text (we will provide a link at the end of the article). Because the law affects not only packaging produced within the EU, but also all goods imported there.

Of course, we cannot tell you everything that is described in the regulations. Therefore, we will write only about a few points and once again advise you to read everything yourself.

The first thing to note is that the Regulation will come into force on 11 February 2025, and some rules will come into force by the end of this year, and most of them from August 2026.

Secondly, the Regulation will apply to all types of packaging, regardless of the materials used, and to all types of packaging waste, regardless of where it comes from. Yes, household and office packaging waste is now also covered by the law.

It is established that ALL packaging on the market must be suitable for recycling. Norms of this suitability are also regulated, strict criteria for the possible content of PFAS in the packaging and its composition in general. For the first time, the use of biological raw materials as an alternative to recycled plastic is considered. Moreover, specific deadlines have been set by which legislation regulating the use of packaging made of biomaterials must be developed.

By early 2030, all manufacturers and importers must reduce their use of packaging to a minimum in terms of weight and volume. Packaging designs that artificially increase the perceived volume of a product will be prohibited.

The Regulation also provides clear guidance on product labelling and what information must be provided there, as well as in what form it can be presented. For example, environmental claims on packaging can now only be made if they exceed the minimum regulatory requirements set out in the PPWR and are supported by technical documentation as specified in the legislation.

The responsibility for ensuring that product packaging meets all the criteria of this Regulation rests with the manufacturers, importers and distributors of products, as well as with the manufacturers of packaging if the packaging is sold to the manufacturer of the product in finished form.

Serious targets are being set for the volume of packaging waste recycling. Thus, EU member states must be able to (and recycle) 65% of the weight of packaging waste by the end of 2025. Specific targets have also been set for the material of recycled packaging: 50% for plastic and aluminum, 70% for glass, and 75% for paper and cardboard in 2025. By 2030, all figures are increased by 5%.

All this is only a small part of the changes that the adoption of this Regulation brings with it. And these changes will affect not only the countries of the European Union, but also all companies supplying their goods there.

The full text of the PPWR can be found at the link https://www.europen-packaging.eu/publication/packaging-and-packaging-waste-regulation-ppwr-final-text/