EU regulation
Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) – (EU) 2025/40
Background
A new EU framework for all packaging
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation replaces Directive 94/62/EC and applies directly in the Member States. It covers packaging and packaging waste of all materials and links product design to recyclability, material content, labelling, and waste reduction. Most provisions apply from 12 August 2026.
Scope
Which businesses are affected?
PPWR affects packaging manufacturers, businesses that package products, importers, distributors, and fulfilment service providers. Ordinary product manufacturers must also assess the primary, secondary, and transport packaging accompanying their products to the EU market.
Requirements
Central requirements
Requirements include restrictions on certain substances, design for recyclability, minimised packaging volume, recycled content in plastics, reuse targets, and harmonised labelling. Manufacturers must assess conformity, prepare technical documentation, and issue an EU declaration of conformity for packaging.
Timeline
A phased timeline
- 11 February 2025: The Regulation entered into force
- 12 August 2026: PPWR generally starts to apply
- 2028 onwards: Labelling and information requirements are introduced in stages
- 2030 onwards: Several recyclability, reuse, and minimisation targets apply
Exact dates vary by article and may depend on implementing acts.
Compliance
Market access and enforcement
Non-compliant packaging may be prohibited, withdrawn, or recalled. Authorities can request technical documentation and inspect both the physical packaging and the economic operator's processes. Penalties are established nationally.
Action plan
Prepare for PPWR
- Map every packaging level and material
- Establish who is the legal packaging manufacturer
- Collect weights, material composition, and supplier evidence
- Assess recyclability and unnecessary volume
- Plan technical documentation, labelling, and the EU declaration
- Monitor implementing acts and product-specific dates
Verca
Structure for product and supplier data
Verca helps companies collect product, material, and supplier documentation in a traceable workflow. The PPWR assessment and legal responsibility remain with the economic operator; Verca does not replace legal advice or a formal conformity assessment.