--- title: "EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)" canonical_url: "https://www.sorena.io/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation" source_url: "https://www.sorena.io/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation" author: "Sorena AI" description: "A practical PPWR hub for Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste." published_at: "2026-02-21" updated_at: "2026-02-21" keywords: - "EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation PPWR" - "Regulation (EU) 2025/40" - "PPWR compliance" - "PPWR timeline" - "PPWR decision flow" - "PPWR recyclability grades A B C" - "design for recycling criteria PPWR" - "recyclable at scale PPWR 2035" - "recycled content targets PPWR 2030 2040" - "PFAS limits food contact packaging PPWR" - "PPWR labelling requirements Article 12" - "digital marking packaging composition PPWR" - "deposit return system marking PPWR" - "reuse targets Article 29" - "refill obligations HORECA Article 32 33" - "excessive packaging empty space ratio 50% Article 24" - "restrictions on packaging formats Annex V Article 25" - "PPWR checklist" - "PPWR compliance calendar" - "PPWR" - "Packaging compliance" - "Recyclability grades" - "Recycled content" - "Labelling" - "Reuse and refill" --- **[SORENA](https://www.sorena.io/)** - AI-Powered GRC Platform [Home](https://www.sorena.io/) | [Solutions](https://www.sorena.io/solutions) | [Artifacts](https://www.sorena.io/artifacts) | [About Us](https://www.sorena.io/about-us) | [Contact](https://www.sorena.io/contact) | [Portal](https://app.sorena.io) --- # EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) A practical PPWR hub for Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste. ![EU PPWR artifact preview](https://cdn.sorena.io/cdn-cgi/image/format=auto/cheatsheets/prod/sorena-ai-eu-ppwr-timeline-small.jpg?v=cheatsheets%2Fprod) *PPWR* *Free Resource* ## EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Timeline and Packaging Decision Flow Use this hub to scope obligations under Regulation (EU) 2025/40, then turn outcomes into packaging specs, supplier requirements, and audit-ready evidence across recyclability, recycled content, labelling/digital marking, PFAS/substances, excessive packaging limits, and reuse/refill targets. Regulation (EU) 2025/40 was signed on 19 December 2024, entered into force on 11 February 2025, and applies from 12 August 2026. Several obligations rely on delegated or implementing acts, so your packaging design, channel, and use case drive what good implementation looks like. [Run the PPWR applicability test](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/applicability-test.md) ## What you can decide faster - **What applies to this packaging unit**: Scope, format (sales/grouped/transport/e-commerce), material and use case. - **What must change in design and materials**: Recyclability grades (A/B/C), design-for-recycling criteria, recycled content, PFAS/substances limits. - **What must change in operations**: Labelling/digital marking, excessive packaging (empty space), reuse/refill obligations and evidence packs. By Sorena AI | Grounded in official EU sources | Updated March 2026 ### Quick scan *PPWR* - **Recyclability (Article 6)**: Design-for-recycling criteria, grades A/B/C, and "recycled at scale". - **Materials (Articles 5-7)**: Substances of concern + PFAS limits + minimum recycled content targets. - **Labelling (Articles 12-13)**: Harmonised labels, QR/digital carriers, and waste receptacle labels. Use the decision flow to identify obligations by packaging type, then use the topic guides to build specs and evidence. | Value | Metric | | --- | --- | | 11 Feb 2025 | In force | | 12 Aug 2026 | Applies | | 1 Jan 2030 | Core obligations | | 2040 | Higher targets | **Key highlights:** Recyclability grades | PFAS limits | Labelling + digital marking ## Topic Guides - [Applicability Test | EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) | Regulation (EU) 2025/40 Scope + Roles](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/applicability-test.md): A practical PPWR applicability test for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: determine whether an item is packaging. - [Labelling and Consumer Information | EU PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Article 12-13 Labels, QR/Digital Marking, DRS](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/labeling-and-consumer-info.md): A practical PPWR labelling guide for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: harmonised composition labels (Article 12), reusable packaging labels + QR/digital carriers. - [PFAS and Restricted Substances | EU PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Article 5 PFAS Thresholds for Food-Contact Packaging](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/pfas-and-restricted-substances.md): A practical PPWR chemicals guide for Regulation (EU) 2025/40 Article 5: minimise substances of concern, comply with heavy metals limits. - [PPWR Compliance Checklist | EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2025/40)](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/checklist.md): An audit-ready PPWR compliance checklist for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: scope your packaging portfolio, map Article 5-7 materials rules (PFAS, heavy metals. - [PPWR Compliance Guide | EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Evidence, Conformity, Enforcement](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/compliance.md): A practical PPWR compliance guide for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: how to structure a defensible compliance program, what 'conformity' means for packaging. - [PPWR Deadlines and Compliance Calendar | Regulation (EU) 2025/40 | 11 February 2025, 12 August 2026, 1 January 2030](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/deadlines-and-compliance-calendar.md): A practical PPWR deadlines and compliance calendar for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: entry into force on 11 February 2025, application from 12 August 2026. - [PPWR FAQ | Regulation (EU) 2025/40 Packaging and Packaging Waste Questions (Dates, PFAS, Labelling, Reuse Targets)](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/faq.md): A source-grounded PPWR FAQ for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: when it applies (12 Aug 2026), what changes in 2030 (empty space 50%, Annex V restrictions. - [PPWR Labelling Checklist | EU PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Article 12-13 Labels + QR/Digital Carriers](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/ppwr-labeling-checklist.md): An audit-ready PPWR labelling checklist: composition labels (Article 12), reusable packaging labels and QR/digital carriers, deposit-and-return marking. - [PPWR Penalties and Fines | Regulation (EU) 2025/40 Article 68 Enforcement and Administrative Fines](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/penalties-and-fines.md): A practical PPWR enforcement and penalties guide for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: what Article 68 requires (Member State penalties rules by 12 Feb 2027. - [PPWR Recyclability Assessment Template | Regulation (EU) 2025/40 | Article 6 Evidence Pack + Grade A/B/C](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/ppwr-recyclability-assessment-template.md): A copyable PPWR recyclability assessment template for Regulation (EU) 2025/40 Article 6: packaging unit inputs (BOM, components, predominant material). - [PPWR Timeline and Deadlines | Regulation (EU) 2025/40 Roadmap | 2025 to 2040](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/timeline-and-deadlines.md): A phased PPWR roadmap for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: entry into force in February 2025, application from August 2026, key implementing acts in 2026 to 2028. - [PPWR vs ESPR | Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40 vs Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (EU) 2024/1781](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/ppwr-vs-espr.md): A practical guide to PPWR vs ESPR: PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) sets packaging-specific rules (recyclability, labelling, PFAS, reuse/refill, empty space. - [Recyclability and Design Requirements | EU PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Article 6 Recyclability Grades A/B/C + Design-for-Recycling](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/recyclability-and-design-requirements.md): A practical Article 6 guide for PPWR recyclability: how to assess design-for-recycling, treat integrated vs separate components. - [Requirements | EU PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Recyclability (Article 6), Recycled Content (Article 7), Labelling (Article 12), PFAS (Article 5)](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/requirements.md): A practical PPWR requirements breakdown for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: Article 5 substance and PFAS limits. - [Reuse and Refill Targets | EU PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Article 28-33 Refill Rules, Article 29 Reuse Targets (40% 2030, 70% 2040)](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/reuse-refill-targets.md): A practical PPWR reuse and refill guide for Regulation (EU) 2025/40: Article 28 refill rules, Article 29 reuse targets for transport packaging. - [Scope and Packaging Definitions | EU PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) | Sales vs Grouped vs Transport vs E-commerce](/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation/scope-and-packaging-definitions.md): A practical PPWR scope and definitions guide: what counts as packaging, how to classify sales/grouped/transport/e-commerce packaging, take-away packaging. ## Key dates for packaging compliance *PPWR Timeline* Track entry into force, application, labelling acts, reuse and refill milestones, 2030 design and format obligations, and long-range review dates that affect packaging redesign and supplier planning. ## Which PPWR obligations apply to your packaging *PPWR Decision Flow* Use the decision flow to identify obligations by packaging type and use case, then translate outcomes into product and procurement requirements. *Next step* ## Turn EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Timeline and Packaging Decision Flow into an ESG delivery workflow EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Timeline and Packaging Decision Flow should be the shared entry point for your team. Route execution into ESG Compliance for live work and into SSOT when the artifact needs deeper research, evidence governance, or supporting analysis. - Start from EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Timeline and Packaging Decision Flow and route the work by entity, product, team, or control owner. - Use ESG Compliance to manage cross team sustainability work, reporting, and evidence from one workflow. - Use SSOT to keep documents, evidence, and control records in one governed system. - Move from artifact reading to accountable execution without rebuilding the guidance in separate files. - [Open ESG Compliance](/solutions/esg-compliance.md): Manage cross team sustainability work, reporting, and evidence from one workflow for EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Timeline and Packaging Decision Flow. - [Open SSOT](/solutions/ssot.md): Keep documents, evidence, and control records in one governed system from the same artifact. - **Download decision flow**: Share PPWR logic with packaging owners. - **Download timeline**: Coordinate milestones across your team. - [Talk through EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Timeline and Packaging Decision Flow](/contact.md): Review your current process, evidence model, and next steps for EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Timeline and Packaging Decision Flow. ## Decision Steps ### STEP 1: Do you place packaging on the EU market or generate packaging waste? *Reference: Reg. (EU) 2025/40* - This Regulation applies to all packaging placed on the market in the Union and to all packaging waste, regardless of type or material used. - If yes: check if you are a manufacturer, importer, distributor, or economic operator using packaging. - **NO** Out of Scope - **YES** What is your role in the packaging supply chain? ### STEP 2: What is your role in the packaging supply chain? - Manufacturer: designs and produces packaging or has packaging designed/produced. - Importer: places packaging from third countries on the Union market. - Distributor: makes packaging available on the market after manufacturer/importer placed it. - Producer: makes packaged products available on the market (EPR obligations). - Final distributor: sells packaged products to consumers (re-use obligations). - -> Are you a manufacturer or importer of packaging? ### STEP 3: Are you a manufacturer or importer of packaging? *Reference: Arts. 15 and 18* - Manufacturers: ensure packaging complies with Arts. 5-12; carry out conformity assessment (Art. 38) and draw up an EU declaration of conformity (Art. 39); draw up technical documentation (Annex VII). - Importers: only place compliant packaging on the market; verify manufacturer's conformity assessment/technical documentation; ensure labelling per Art. 12; provide importer identification information. - Recordkeeping: single-use packaging - keep relevant documentation for 5 years; reusable packaging - 10 years (Arts. 15(3) and 18(7)). - **YES** Does your packaging meet the sustainability requirements? - **NO** Are you a distributor of packaging? ### STEP 4: Are you a distributor of packaging? *Reference: Art. 19* - Distributors: act with due care to ensure packaging complies with this Regulation. - Before making packaging available: verify producer registration (Art. 44), packaging labelling (Art. 12), and manufacturer/importer identification information (Art. 19(2)). - Do not make packaging available on the market if you know or should have known it does not comply. - Inform manufacturer/importer and market surveillance authorities of non-compliant packaging. - **YES** Distributor Compliance Required - **NO** Are you a producer subject to extended producer responsibility? ### STEP 5: Does your packaging meet the sustainability requirements? *Reference: Arts. 5-12* - Substances in packaging: minimise substances of concern; heavy metals limit; PFAS restriction for food-contact packaging from 12 Aug 2026 (Art. 5). - Recyclability: packaging must be recyclable and meet the recyclability conditions and performance grades (Art. 6). - Minimum recycled content (plastic packaging): targets from 2030 and 2040 (Art. 7). - Compostable packaging: only certain packaging is required/allowed to be compostable; other packaging must be designed for material recycling (Art. 9). - Minimisation: by 1 Jan 2030, packaging weight/volume reduced to the minimum necessary; excessive packaging features restricted (Art. 10, and empty-space rules in Art. 24). - Reusable packaging and labelling: reusability requirements (Art. 11) and harmonised labelling/marking requirements (Art. 12). - **YES** Is your packaging recyclable under PPWR criteria? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### RECYCLABILITY: Is your packaging recyclable under PPWR criteria? *Reference: Art. 6* - From 1 Jan 2030 (or 24 months after the relevant delegated acts enter into force, whichever is later): the design-for-recycling condition applies and packaging cannot be placed on the market unless it is recyclable within grades A, B or C. - From 1 Jan 2035 (or 5 years after the relevant implementing acts enter into force, whichever is later): the recycled-at-scale condition applies. - From 1 Jan 2038: packaging cannot be placed on the market unless it is recyclable within grades A or B. - Exemptions for: immediate medicinal packaging, contact-sensitive medical/infant food packaging, dangerous goods packaging, lightweight wood/cork/textile/rubber/ceramic/porcelain sales packaging. - **YES** Does plastic packaging contain the required recycled content? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### RECYCLED CONTENT: Does plastic packaging contain the required recycled content? *Reference: Art. 7* - From 1 Jan 2030 (or later depending on implementing act timing): minimum post-consumer recycled content per packaging type/format: 30% for single-use plastic beverage bottles; 30% for contact-sensitive PET (except beverage bottles); 10% for contact-sensitive non-PET (except beverage bottles); 35% for other plastic packaging. - From 1 Jan 2040: minimum post-consumer recycled content per packaging type/format: 65% for single-use plastic beverage bottles; 50% for contact-sensitive PET (except beverage bottles); 25% for contact-sensitive non-PET (except beverage bottles); 65% for other plastic packaging. - Calculated as average per manufacturing plant and year, per packaging type/format. - Key exemptions include specific medicinal/medical device packaging, compostable plastic packaging, dangerous goods packaging, certain infant/young children food packaging, and very small plastic parts (<5% of unit weight) (Art. 7(4)-(5)). - **YES** Does food-contact packaging contain PFAS? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### PFAS BAN: Does food-contact packaging contain PFAS? *Reference: Art. 5(5)* - From 12 Aug 2026: food-contact packaging must not be placed on the market if it contains PFAS at or above the limit values in Art. 5(5). - Limit values: 25 ppb for any PFAS (targeted analysis), 250 ppb for the sum of PFAS (targeted analysis, where applicable with precursor degradation), and 50 ppm for PFASs including polymeric PFAS. - By 12 Aug 2030: Commission evaluates whether to amend or repeal this restriction to avoid overlaps with other Union PFAS restrictions. - **YES** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required - **NO** Does packaging comply with heavy metal concentration limits? ### HEAVY METALS: Does packaging comply with heavy metal concentration limits? *Reference: Art. 5(4)* - Sum of concentration levels of lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium: max 100 ppm by weight. - Derogations may apply for glass packaging, plastic crates/pallets in closed loops (based on Commission delegated acts). - Commission may adopt delegated acts to lower concentrations or determine conditions for exemptions. - **YES** Is packaging allowed to be compostable? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### COMPOSTABLE: Is packaging allowed to be compostable? *Reference: Art. 9* - By 12 Feb 2028: permeable tea/coffee beverage bags and soft after-use single-serve units, and sticky labels affixed to fruit and vegetables, must be compatible with industrial composting standards; Member States may require compatibility with home-composting standards (Art. 9(1)). - Member States may require certain packaging to be compostable where collection schemes and treatment infrastructure ensure compostable packaging enters the bio-waste stream (Art. 9(2)). - By 12 Feb 2028: packaging other than that referred to in Art. 9(1)-(2) (including biodegradable materials) must be designed for material recycling in accordance with Art. 6 (Art. 9(3)). - Compliance must be demonstrated in the technical information (Annex VII) (Art. 9(4)). - **YES** Is packaging minimised in volume and weight? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### MINIMISATION: Is packaging minimised in volume and weight? *Reference: Art. 10* - Packaging must be minimised while maintaining functionality (protection, hygiene, safety, acceptance). - No double walls, false bottoms, or other features aimed only at increasing perceived volume. - No superfluous packaging not necessary for functionality. - Exemptions: EU geographical indication products, trademark/design rights protected before 11 Feb 2025. - Harmonised standards (when available) provide presumption of conformity. - **YES** If reusable, is packaging designed for re-use and linked to a re-use system? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### REUSABLE DESIGN: If reusable, is packaging designed for re-use and linked to a re-use system? *Reference: Art. 11, Arts. 26-27 & Annex VI* - Reusable packaging must be designed for maximum number of rotations while maintaining safety, quality, hygiene. - Reusable packaging must be linked to a re-use system (open loop or closed loop) that meets the minimum requirements in Annex VI; economic operators using reusable packaging must participate in re-use systems and ensure reconditioning (Arts. 26-27). - Harmonised standards (when available) provide presumption of conformity for reusable packaging and re-use systems. - **YES** Does packaging carry the required labels? - **NO** Does packaging carry the required labels? ### LABELLING: Does packaging carry the required labels? *Reference: Art. 12* - Material composition label: harmonised symbol showing material and waste stream (mandatory, except transport packaging unless e-commerce). - Reusable packaging: QR code or digital carrier with re-use system info, tracking/rotation data, collection channels. - Deposit and return system: harmonised label if covered by mandatory DRS. - Substances of concern: digital marking if packaging contains substances of concern. - Recycled content and biobased plastic content: optional harmonised labels (if manufacturer wishes to display). - **YES** Have you completed the conformity assessment and EU declaration? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### EMPTY SPACE: Does grouped/transport/e-commerce packaging exceed 50% empty space ratio? *Reference: Art. 24* - By 1 Jan 2030 (or 3 years after the implementing acts enter into force, whichever is later): economic operators who fill grouped, transport or e-commerce packaging must ensure the empty space ratio is max 50%. - Methodology for calculating empty space ratio is set by implementing acts (by 12 Feb 2028). - Exemptions: sales packaging used as e-commerce packaging and reusable packaging within a system of re-use are exempt from the 50% ratio obligation (but other minimisation requirements still apply). - **YES** Does packaging fall under the restricted formats? - **NO** Economic Operator Compliance Required ### RESTRICTIONS: Does packaging fall under the restricted formats? *Reference: Art. 25 & Annex V* - From 1 Jan 2030: economic operators must not place on the market packaging in the formats and for the uses listed in Annex V (subject to the Annex V conditions and exceptions). - Commission may publish guidelines to explain the list and exemptions. - **YES** If using reusable packaging, is a re-use system in place? - **NO** Economic Operator Compliance Required ### RE-USE SYSTEM: If using reusable packaging, is a re-use system in place? *Reference: Arts. 26-27 & Annex VI* - Re-use systems must meet minimum requirements: collection channels, reconditioning process (wash, repair, quality check), tracking. - Open loop systems: multiple economic operators participate; must have system operator. - Closed loop systems: single economic operator controls packaging; system operator optional. - Reusable packaging becomes waste when holder discards it; packaging in reconditioning is normally not waste. - **YES** Do you offer refill options for products? - **NO** Economic Operator Compliance Required ### REFILL: Do you offer refill options for products? *Reference: Art. 28* - Refill stations must meet hygiene and safety requirements. - Economic operators must provide information on safe refill and use of consumer-provided containers. - Cannot provide free packaging or non-DRS packaging at refill stations. - Economic operators exempt from liability for food safety issues arising from consumer-provided containers. - From 1 Jan 2030: final distributors with a sales area > 400 m2 shall endeavour to dedicate 10% of sales area to refill stations for food and non-food products. - **YES** Are you subject to re-use or refill targets? - **NO** Are you subject to re-use or refill targets? ### RE-USE TARGETS: Are you subject to re-use or refill targets? *Reference: Art. 29* - Transport packaging (e.g., pallets, crates, boxes, trays, IBCs, etc.): at least 40% reusable within a re-use system from 1 Jan 2030; endeavour at least 70% from 1 Jan 2040. - Grouped packaging (boxes excluding cardboard): at least 10% reusable within a re-use system from 1 Jan 2030; endeavour at least 25% from 1 Jan 2040. - Beverages (final distributors): at least 10% made available in reusable packaging within a re-use system from 1 Jan 2030; endeavour at least 40% from 1 Jan 2040 (with product-category exclusions and other exemptions). - Key exemptions include very small final distributors (sales area <= 100 m2) and micro-enterprises placing <= 1,000 kg packaging on the market in a calendar year; certain beverage categories are excluded (e.g., highly perishable beverages, milk/milk products, wine-related categories, and certain spirits). - **YES** Do you use transport packaging between sites or within one Member State? - **NO** Do you use transport packaging between sites or within one Member State? ### TRANSPORT: Do you use transport packaging between sites or within one Member State? *Reference: Art. 29(2)-(3)* - Economic operators transporting between own sites or with linked/partner enterprises: use only reusable transport packaging (pallets, foldable boxes, plastic crates, IBCs, drums). - Same obligation when transporting within one Member State. - Exemptions: dangerous goods, large-scale machinery, direct-contact flexible food transport, cardboard boxes. - **YES** Do you supply plastic carrier bags? - **NO** Do you supply plastic carrier bags? ### CARRIER BAGS: Do you supply plastic carrier bags? *Reference: Art. 34* - Member States must take measures to achieve a sustained reduction in the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags. - Sustained reduction target: annual consumption must not exceed 40 lightweight plastic carrier bags per capita by 31 Dec 2025 (and by 31 Dec each year thereafter). - Member States can use measures such as economic instruments, national reduction targets and (proportionate, non-discriminatory) marketing restrictions. - Member States may exclude very lightweight plastic carrier bags required for hygiene purposes or provided as sales packaging for loose food to prevent food wastage. - **YES** Economic Operator Compliance Required - **NO** Are you a producer subject to extended producer responsibility? ### CONFORMITY: Have you completed the conformity assessment and EU declaration? *Reference: Arts. 15, 38-39 & Annex VII* - Before placing packaging on the market, manufacturers must carry out the conformity assessment procedure (internal production control) and draw up the technical documentation (Annex VII) (Art. 15(2) and Art. 38). - After conformity is demonstrated, manufacturers draw up an EU declaration of conformity (Art. 15(2) and Art. 39). - Recordkeeping: single-use packaging - keep technical documentation and EU declaration for 5 years; reusable packaging - 10 years (Art. 15(3)). - **YES** Does grouped/transport/e-commerce packaging exceed 50% empty space ratio? - **NO** Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required ### EPR: Are you a producer subject to extended producer responsibility? *Reference: Art. 45* - Producers have extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging (including packaging of packaged products) that they make available for the first time in a Member State, or that they unpack without being end users (Art. 45(1)). - If you sell via distance contracts into other Member States, you may need to appoint an authorised representative for EPR in each relevant Member State (Art. 45(3)). - Online platforms facilitating distance contracts with producers must obtain the producer's EPR registration information and self-certification before allowing sales (Art. 45(4)-(6)). - **YES** Producer EPR Obligations Apply - **NO** Does your Member State meet the packaging waste prevention targets? ### WASTE PREVENTION: Does your Member State meet the packaging waste prevention targets? *Reference: Art. 43* - Member State obligations: reduce packaging waste generation per capita compared to 2018. - 5% reduction by 2030, 10% by 2035, 15% by 2040. - Member States adopt measures: economic instruments, re-use systems, refill promotion, EPR measures, packaging minimisation enforcement. - Early warning system: Commission issues reports if MS at risk of missing targets. - **YES** Does your Member State meet the packaging waste recycling targets? - **NO** Member State Obligations ### RECYCLING TARGETS: Does your Member State meet the packaging waste recycling targets? *Reference: Art. 52* - Member State obligations: achieve minimum recycling targets covering the whole territory, by weight of packaging waste generated. - Targets include overall recycling: 65% by 31 Dec 2025 and 70% by 31 Dec 2030 (Art. 52(1)(a) and (c)), plus material-specific targets for 2025 and 2030 (Art. 52(1)(b) and (d)). - Member States report and calculate achievement using the rules set out in Arts. 53-56. - **YES** Member State Obligations - **NO** Member State Obligations ## Reference Information ### Packaging In Scope (Overview) - All packaging placed on the Union market, regardless of type or material: sales packaging, grouped packaging, transport packaging, service packaging. - All packaging waste, regardless of the material used (plastic, paper, cardboard, glass, metal, wood, etc.). - Economic operators: manufacturers, importers, distributors, final distributors, producers (under extended producer responsibility). - Some provisions include exemptions or flexibilities for certain actors or situations where explicitly provided for in the Regulation. ### Recyclability Requirements (Detailed) - All packaging placed on the market must be recyclable (Art. 6(1)). - Recyclability conditions: designed for material recycling (Art. 6(2)(a)) and, when waste, capable of separate collection/sorting and being recycled at scale (Art. 6(2)(b)). - Applicability: design-for-recycling condition applies from 1 Jan 2030 or 24 months after the relevant delegated acts enter into force (whichever is later); recycled-at-scale condition applies from 1 Jan 2035 or 5 years after the relevant implementing acts enter into force (whichever is later) (Art. 6(2)). - Performance grades A, B, C (Annex II): from 1 Jan 2030 (or later depending on delegated acts), packaging cannot be placed on the market unless it is grade A, B, or C; from 1 Jan 2038, it must be grade A or B (Art. 6(3)). - Commission acts: delegated acts by 1 Jan 2028 set design-for-recycling criteria/grades and EPR fee modulation framework (Art. 6(4)); implementing acts by 1 Jan 2030 set recycled-at-scale methodology and chain of custody (Art. 6(5)). - Innovative packaging derogation: from 1 Jan 2030, certain innovative packaging may be made available up to 5 years under conditions (Art. 6(10)). - Exemptions from Art. 6: listed in Art. 6(11) (e.g., certain medicinal/medical device/infant food contact-sensitive packaging, dangerous goods packaging, specified low-volume material sales packaging). ### Recycled Content Requirements (Detailed) - By 1 Jan 2030 (or 3 years after the implementing act under Art. 7(8), whichever is later): minimum post-consumer recycled content per packaging type/format (Art. 7(1)): 30% contact-sensitive PET (excluding single-use plastic beverage bottles), 10% contact-sensitive non-PET (excluding bottles), 30% single-use plastic beverage bottles, 35% other plastic packaging. - By 1 Jan 2040: minimum post-consumer recycled content (Art. 7(2)): 50% contact-sensitive PET (excluding bottles), 25% contact-sensitive non-PET (excluding bottles), 65% single-use plastic beverage bottles, 65% other plastic packaging. - Calculated as an average per manufacturing plant and year, per packaging type/format (Art. 7(1)-(2)). - Key exemptions and carve-outs: Art. 7(4)-(5) (including specific medicinal/medical device packaging, compostable plastic packaging, dangerous goods packaging, certain infant/young children food packaging, recycled content posing a human-health risk for food-contact packaging, and plastic parts <5% of total packaging unit weight). - Commission implementing acts by 31 Dec 2026 establish the calculation and verification methodology and technical documentation format (Art. 7(8)). - Commission delegated acts by 31 Dec 2026 establish sustainability criteria for plastic recycling technologies; additional implementing acts cover equivalence for third-country collection/recycling (Art. 7(9)-(10)). ### Substances of Concern (Detailed) - Packaging must be manufactured so that the presence and concentration of substances of concern is minimised (Art. 5(1)). - Heavy metals: the sum of concentrations of lead, cadmium, mercury and hexavalent chromium must not exceed 100 mg/kg (Art. 5(4)). Compliance is demonstrated in technical documentation (Annex VII) (Art. 5(6)). - PFAS restriction for food-contact packaging: from 12 Aug 2026, food-contact packaging must not be placed on the market if PFAS are present at or above the limit values in Art. 5(5) (25 ppb any PFAS, 250 ppb sum of PFAS, 50 ppm PFAS incl polymeric). - By 12 Aug 2030: Commission evaluates whether to amend or repeal the PFAS paragraph to avoid overlaps with other Union PFAS restrictions (Art. 5(5)). - Commission may adopt delegated acts to lower the heavy-metals limit and to set conditions for time-limited exemptions (e.g., closed and controlled chains) (Art. 5(7)-(8)); Commission also reports on substances of concern by 31 Dec 2026 (Art. 5(2)). ### Compostable Packaging (Detailed) - By 12 Feb 2028: permeable tea/coffee (or other beverage) bags and soft after-use system single-serve units (Art. 3(1)(1)(f)), and sticky labels affixed to fruit and vegetables, must be compatible with the standard for industrial composting in bio-waste treatment facilities; Member States may require compatibility with home-composting standards (Art. 9(1) and 9(6)). - Member States may require certain packaging to be compostable when collected together with bio-waste and where appropriate collection/treatment infrastructure exists, including certain non-permeable single-serve units (Art. 3(1)(1)(g)) made of material other than metal and plastic carrier bags (Art. 9(2)). - By 12 Feb 2028: packaging other than that referred to in Art. 9(1)-(2) must be designed for material recycling under Art. 6 without affecting the recyclability of other waste streams (Art. 9(3)). - Compliance must be demonstrated in the technical information (Annex VII) (Art. 9(4)). ### Packaging Minimisation (Detailed) - By 1 Jan 2030: manufacturers/importers must ensure packaging is designed so weight and volume are reduced to the minimum necessary to ensure functionality (Art. 10(1)). - Certain packaging designs must not be placed on the market if they do not comply with the performance criteria in Annex IV, or if they aim only to increase perceived product volume (e.g., double walls, false bottoms, unnecessary layers), subject to specific derogations (Art. 10(2)). - Derogations in Art. 10(2) include specific situations where protected designs/trademarks (protected before 11 Feb 2025) or protected geographical indications/quality schemes would be affected. - Commission requests harmonised standards for minimisation methodology by 12 Feb 2027 (Art. 10(3)); compliance must be demonstrated in technical documentation (Annex VII) (Art. 10(4)). ### Reusable Packaging & Re-use Systems (Detailed) - Reusable packaging requirements: packaging is reusable if it meets all conditions in Art. 11(1)(a)-(i) (designed for multiple uses/rotations; safe/hygienic; capable of reconditioning; recyclable at end of life). - Commission delegated act: by 12 Feb 2027, establish a minimum number of rotations for frequently used reusable packaging formats (Art. 11(2)). - Obligations for making reusable packaging available for the first time: ensure a re-use system with an incentive for collection is in place and meets Annex VI requirements (Art. 26 and Annex VI). - Obligations for using reusable packaging: participate in one or more re-use systems; ensure the system meets Annex VI Part A; ensure reconditioning in line with Annex VI Part B (Art. 27). ### Labelling Requirements (Detailed) - Material composition label: from 12 Aug 2028 (or later depending on implementing acts), packaging must be marked with a harmonised label with information on material composition to facilitate consumer sorting (Art. 12(1)). - Reusable packaging: from 12 Feb 2029 (or later depending on implementing acts), reusable packaging bears a label informing users it is reusable, and provides further information via a QR code or other standardised, open digital data carrier; the label/QR requirement does not apply to open loop systems without a system operator (Art. 12(2)-(3)). - Deposit and return systems: packaging subject to deposit and return systems under Art. 50(1) must be marked with a clear and unambiguous label (Art. 12(1), second subparagraph). - Substances of concern: packaging containing substances of concern is marked by means of standardised, open digital-marking technologies (Art. 12(1), second subparagraph; methodology via implementing acts under Art. 12(7)). - Implementing acts: Commission adopts implementing acts on harmonised label specifications and formats, and methodologies for digital marking (Art. 12(6)-(7)). ### Re-use & Refill Targets (Detailed) - Transport packaging: from 1 Jan 2030, economic operators using specified transport packaging formats must ensure at least 40% is reusable within a re-use system; from 1 Jan 2040 they shall endeavour to use at least 70% (Art. 29(1)). - Transport between own/linked sites and certain same-Member-State deliveries: from 1 Jan 2030, transport packaging used in those cases must be reusable within a re-use system (Art. 29(2)-(3)). - Grouped packaging (boxes excluding cardboard): from 1 Jan 2030, at least 10% reusable within a re-use system; from 1 Jan 2040 endeavour at least 25% (Art. 29(5)). - Beverages (final distributors): from 1 Jan 2030, ensure at least 10% of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are made available in reusable packaging within a re-use system; from 1 Jan 2040 endeavour at least 40% (Art. 29(6)). - Beverage exclusions/exemptions: Art. 29(7), plus exemptions for final distributors with sales area <= 100 m2 and certain geographic exemptions (Art. 29(10)-(11)); take-back obligations apply when reusable packaging is sold (Art. 29(9)). ### Transport Packaging (Detailed) - From 1 Jan 2030: for specified transport packaging formats, at least 40% must be reusable within a re-use system; from 1 Jan 2040, endeavour at least 70% (Art. 29(1)). - From 1 Jan 2030: for transport packaging used between an operator's own sites (including linked/partner enterprises) and for certain same-Member-State deliveries, packaging must be reusable within a re-use system (Art. 29(2)-(3)). - Exemptions: the transport-packaging obligations do not apply to packaging used for dangerous goods, custom-designed packaging for large-scale machinery/equipment/commodities, certain flexible food/feed contact transport packaging, and cardboard boxes (Art. 29(4)). ### Plastic Carrier Bags (Detailed) - Member States must take measures to achieve a sustained reduction in the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags (Art. 34(1)). - Sustained reduction is achieved if annual consumption does not exceed 40 lightweight plastic carrier bags per capita by 31 Dec 2025 and subsequently by 31 Dec each year thereafter (Art. 34(1)). - Member State measures may include marketing restrictions (proportionate and non-discriminatory), economic instruments and national reduction targets; measures should take into account environmental impacts, composting properties, durability and intended use (Art. 34(2)-(3)). - Member States may exclude very lightweight plastic carrier bags required for hygiene purposes or provided as sales packaging for loose food to prevent food wastage (Art. 34(4)). ### Extended Producer Responsibility (Detailed) - Producer definition: set out in Art. 3(15) (covers making packaging/packaged products available for the first time in a Member State, including via distance contracts, and unpacking packaged products without being an end user). - Producer registration: producers register in the Member State register (Art. 44); Member States ensure the list of registered producers is publicly accessible (Art. 44(13)). - EPR obligation: producers have extended producer responsibility under schemes established under Directive 2008/98/EC and Section 3 of the PPWR (Art. 45(1)). - EPR costs: in addition to Directive 2008/98/EC costs, contributions cover costs of labelling waste receptacles (Art. 13) and certain compositional surveys, as specified (Art. 45(2)). - Authorised representative for EPR: certain producers appoint an authorised representative for EPR in each Member State where they first make packaging/packaged products available (Art. 45(3)). - Online platforms: providers enabling distance contracts with producers must obtain EPR registration information and self-certification before allowing sales (Art. 45(4)-(6)). ### Waste Prevention Targets (Detailed) - Targets: each Member State reduces packaging waste generated per capita vs 2018 by at least 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040 (Art. 43(1)). - Commission correction factor: by 12 Feb 2027, Commission establishes a correction factor to account for tourism change vs 2018 (Art. 43(2)). - Member State measures: Member States implement proportionate and non-discriminatory measures to prevent packaging waste and minimise environmental impacts; measures may include economic instruments and incentives via EPR schemes (Art. 43(5)). - Commission review: by 12 Feb 2032, Commission reviews the targets and assesses need for additional material-specific targets (Art. 43(9)). ### Recycling Targets (Detailed) - Overall targets: recycle at least 65% of all packaging waste generated by 31 Dec 2025, and at least 70% by 31 Dec 2030 (Art. 52(1)(a) and (c)). - Material-specific targets: by 31 Dec 2025 and 31 Dec 2030, achieve minimum recycling percentages for plastic, wood, ferrous metals, aluminium, glass, and paper/cardboard as set out in Art. 52(1)(b) and (d). - Postponement: under conditions, a Member State may postpone certain material-specific deadlines by up to 5 years (Art. 52(2)-(3)). - Calculation rules: achievement is calculated under Art. 53 (and related provisions), based on packaging waste entering the recycling operation after necessary preliminary operations. ### Deposit and Return Systems (Detailed) - Separate collection target: by 1 Jan 2029, ensure separate collection of at least 90% per year (by weight) of single-use plastic beverage bottles (up to 3 litres) and single-use metal beverage containers (up to 3 litres) made available on the market for the first time (Art. 50(1)). - To achieve the target, Member States ensure deposit and return systems are set up for those formats and a deposit is charged at point of sale (Art. 50(2)). - Certain exemptions/derogations apply (e.g., HORECA premises consumption; certain beverage categories; possible Member State exemption subject to conditions and Commission interaction) (Art. 50(3)-(7)). - Minimum requirements for certain systems are listed in Annex X; Commission assesses implementation and interoperability over time (Art. 50(11)). ### Market Surveillance & Enforcement - Market surveillance framework: Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 applies to PPWR packaging (see recitals; and PPWR provisions on controls/communication). - Where packaging presents a risk or is non-compliant, market surveillance authorities can require corrective measures, withdrawal or recall; PPWR includes procedures for risk and safeguard measures (Arts. 58-60). - Controls on packaging entering the Union market and coordination with customs are addressed in Art. 61. - Penalties: Member States lay down rules on penalties for infringements; they must be effective, proportionate and dissuasive (Art. 68). ### Reporting & Data Requirements - Member State reporting on packaging waste generation and recycling targets is supported by calculation rules in Art. 53 and implementing powers in Art. 56(7) (including formats/methodologies). - Producer registration and reporting: Chapter VIII includes detailed registration/reporting requirements for producers and producer responsibility organisations (Art. 44 and related provisions). - Packaging waste management operators provide annual data to competent authorities and to producers/PROs as needed for producer reporting (Art. 23). ## Possible Outcomes ### [RESULT] Manufacturer/Importer Compliance Required Sustainability, labelling, conformity assessment - Ensure packaging meets all sustainability requirements (recyclability, recycled content, substances of concern, minimisation, etc.). - Carry out conformity assessment (Module A), draw up EU declaration of conformity, keep technical documentation for 10 years. - Affix required labels (material composition, reusable QR code, DRS label if applicable, substances of concern digital marking). - Affix name, registered trade name/trademark, and postal/electronic contact details on packaging or documentation. ### [RESULT] Distributor Compliance Required Due care and verification - Verify manufacturer/importer has met marking and documentation requirements before making packaging available. - Act with due care to ensure packaging complies with this Regulation. - Do not make non-compliant packaging available on the market. - Inform manufacturer/importer and market surveillance authorities of non-compliance. - Keep records of transactions for 10 years. ### [RESULT] Economic Operator Compliance Required Re-use, refill, empty space, restricted formats - Ensure grouped/transport/e-commerce packaging does not exceed 50% empty space ratio (unless reusable or exempted). - From 1 Jan 2030: do not place on the market packaging formats and uses listed in Annex V (Art. 25). - If using reusable packaging: ensure a re-use system is in place and comply with Annex VI requirements (Arts. 26-27 and Annex VI). - If you are a final distributor offering beverages: check the reusable packaging targets and take-back obligations in Art. 29(6) and 29(9)-(12). - Use only reusable transport packaging between sites/within one MS (unless exempted). - Achieve sustained reduction in plastic carrier bags or comply with national measures. ### [RESULT] Producer EPR Obligations Apply Finance waste management, meet targets, report - Register with competent authority as a producer (or join producer responsibility organisation). - Finance full waste management costs for packaging waste from your products (collection, sorting, recycling, disposal). - Pay EPR fees modulated by recyclability grade and recycled content. - Provide financial/organisational support for re-use systems. - Report annually under the producer registration/reporting requirements in Chapter VIII (Art. 44 and related provisions). - Support Member State objectives, including waste prevention targets (Art. 43) and recycling targets (Art. 52), through compliant packaging design and EPR scheme participation. ### [RESULT] Member State Obligations Targets, infrastructure, reporting, enforcement - Achieve packaging waste prevention targets: 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, 15% by 2040 (per capita vs. 2018). - Achieve packaging waste recycling targets: 65% by 31 Dec 2025 and 70% by 31 Dec 2030 (overall) + material-specific targets for 2025 and 2030 (Art. 52). - Establish separate collection systems, sorting infrastructure, recycling capacity. - Designate competent authorities for EPR, market surveillance, enforcement. - Report annually to Commission on packaging placed on market, waste generated, collection/recycling rates, prevention measures. - Adopt national measures: economic instruments, deposit and return systems for certain beverage packaging (Art. 50), re-use and refill encouragement measures (Art. 51). ### [RESULT] Out of Scope PPWR does not directly apply - You do not place packaging on the Union market or generate packaging waste within the scope of this Regulation. - Even if not directly in scope, you may be impacted via supply chain requirements from PPWR-regulated customers. ## PPWR Timeline | Date | Event | Reference | | --- | --- | --- | | 2024-12-19 | PPWR adopted | Reg. (EU) 2025/40 | | 2025-01-22 | PPWR published in Official Journal (OJ L) | Reg. (EU) 2025/40 | | 2025-02-11 | PPWR enters into force (20 days after publication) | Reg. (EU) 2025/40 | | 2026-08-12 | PFAS restriction for food-contact packaging applies | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 5(5) | | 2026-08-12 | PPWR applies; Directive 94/62/EC is repealed (with specified exceptions) | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 70 | | 2026-08-12 | Commission implementing acts due for harmonised labels and specifications | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Arts. 12(6)-(7) and 13(2) | | 2026-12-31 | Commission implementing acts due for recycled content methodology and documentation format | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 7(8) | | 2028-01-01 | Commission adopts delegated acts on recyclability criteria and performance grades (deadline) | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 6(4) | | 2028-02-12 | Compostable packaging requirements apply for specified packaging types | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 9(1) and 9(3) | | 2029-01-01 | Deposit and return systems required for certain beverage packaging (to reach 90% separate collection) | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 50(1)-(2) | | 2030-01-01 | Restrictions on certain packaging formats apply | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 25 and Annex V | | 2030-01-01 | Packaging minimisation requirements apply | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 10 | | 2030-01-01 | Packaging cannot be placed on the market unless recyclable within grades A/B/C (subject to timing rules) | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 6(3) | | 2035-01-01 | Recycled-at-scale condition applies for recyclability (subject to timing rules) | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 6(2)(b) | | 2038-01-01 | Packaging cannot be placed on the market unless recyclable within grades A or B | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 6(3) | | 2040-01-01 | Higher recycled content targets for plastic packaging apply | Reg. (EU) 2025/40, Art. 7(2) | ## Compliance Timeline | Date | Event | Category | Reference | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 2022-11-30 | Legislative proposal published | Legislative milestones | COM(2022)0677 | | 2023-01-11 | Rapporteur Frederique Ries appointed | Legislative milestones | | | 2023-03-13 | Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading | Legislative milestones | | | 2023-04-27 | EESC opinion published | Legislative milestones | | | 2023-06-15 | Referral to associated committees announced | Legislative milestones | | | 2023-10-24 | Vote in ENVI committee, 1st reading | Legislative milestones | | | 2023-11-06 | Committee report tabled for plenary, 1st reading | Legislative milestones | A9-0319/2023 | | 2023-11-21 | Debate in Parliament | Legislative milestones | | | 2023-11-22 | Decision by Parliament, 1st reading (partial vote) | Legislative milestones | T9-0425/2023 | | 2024-03-15 | Interinstitutional agreement reached | Legislative milestones | PE760.975; GEDA/A/(2024)001591 | | 2024-03-19 | ENVI approval of interinstitutional text | Legislative milestones | | | 2024-04-24 | Parliament adopts final text | Legislative milestones | T9-0318/2024 | | 2024-12-16 | Council adopts regulation | Legislative milestones | | | 2024-12-19 | Final act signed (adoption date) | Legislative milestones | Regulation (EU) 2025/40 | | 2025-01-22 | Publication in Official Journal | Legislative milestones | OJ L, 22.1.2025 | | 2026-08-12 | Regulation applies; Packaging Waste Directive repealed | Legislative milestones | | | 2026-08-12 | Commission implementing acts due for labels and digital marking | Implementing acts | | | 2026-08-12 | PFAS restriction for food-contact packaging applies | PFAS & harmful substances | | | 2029-01-01 | 90% collection target for single-use beverage containers | Deposit return systems | | | 2030-01-01 | Single-use plastic packaging bans take effect | Bans & restrictions | | | 2030-01-01 | All packaging must be recyclable | Recyclability & recycled content | | | 2030-01-01 | 5% packaging waste reduction target (vs 2018) | Packaging waste reduction | | | 2030-01-01 | Reuse and refill targets for 2030 | Reuse & refill | | | 2030-01-01 | Recycled content targets for plastic packaging (2030) | Recyclability & recycled content | | | 2034-08-12 | Commission evaluation report due | Legislative milestones | | | 2035-01-01 | 10% packaging waste reduction target (vs 2018) | Packaging waste reduction | | | 2035-01-01 | Recyclability criteria: recycled-at-scale assessment | Recyclability & recycled content | | | 2038-01-01 | Minimum recyclability grade B required | Recyclability & recycled content | | | 2040-01-01 | 15% packaging waste reduction target (vs 2018) | Packaging waste reduction | | | 2040-01-01 | Recycled content targets for plastic packaging (2040) | Recyclability & recycled content | | **Event details:** - **2022-11-30 - Legislative proposal published**: European Commission publishes legislative proposal COM(2022)0677 on packaging and packaging waste, including baseline statistics showing packaging waste increased from 66 million tonnes in 2009 to 84 million tonnes in 2021. - **2023-01-11 - Rapporteur Frederique Ries appointed**: European Parliament ENVI Committee appoints Frederique Ries (Renew, Belgium) as rapporteur for the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. - **2023-03-13 - Committee referral announced in Parliament, 1st reading**: European Parliament announces referral to ENVI Committee as responsible committee for 1st reading of the packaging regulation. - **2023-04-27 - EESC opinion published**: European Economic and Social Committee issues its opinion (CES6037/2022) on the Commission proposal (dated 27 April 2023; referenced in the final regulation as published in OJ C 228 on 29 June 2023). - **2023-06-15 - Referral to associated committees announced**: European Parliament announces referral to associated committees ITRE and IMCO. - **2023-10-24 - Vote in ENVI committee, 1st reading**: European Parliament ENVI Committee votes on the draft report at first reading. - **2023-11-06 - Committee report tabled for plenary, 1st reading**: ENVI Committee report A9-0319/2023 tabled for plenary consideration at first reading. - **2023-11-21 - Debate in Parliament**: European Parliament holds plenary debate on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. - **2023-11-22 - Decision by Parliament, 1st reading (partial vote)**: Parliament adopts position at first reading (T9-0425/2023) and refers matter back to committee responsible for interinstitutional negotiations. - **2024-03-15 - Interinstitutional agreement reached**: European Parliament and Council reach provisional agreement on the final text of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. - **2024-03-19 - ENVI approval of interinstitutional text**: ENVI Committee approves the text agreed at first reading interinstitutional negotiations. - **2024-04-24 - Parliament adopts final text**: European Parliament adopts Regulation at 1st reading with 476 votes in favour, 129 against and 24 abstentions (T9-0318/2024). - **2024-12-16 - Council adopts regulation**: Council of the European Union formally adopts Regulation (EU) 2025/40 after Parliament's first reading. - **2024-12-19 - Final act signed (adoption date)**: Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council on packaging and packaging waste is signed and adopted on 19 December 2024. - **2025-01-22 - Publication in Official Journal**: Regulation (EU) 2025/40 is published in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJ L series, 22 January 2025). - **2026-08-12 - Regulation applies; Packaging Waste Directive repealed**: Regulation (EU) 2025/40 applies from 12 August 2026. Directive 94/62/EC is repealed with effect from the same date, subject to transitional provisions. - **2026-08-12 - Commission implementing acts due for labels and digital marking**: By 12 August 2026, the Commission must adopt implementing acts for a harmonised label and related labelling specifications, and for a methodology to identify packaging material composition using standardised, open, digital marking technologies (plus related receptacle labelling specifications). - **2026-08-12 - PFAS restriction for food-contact packaging applies**: From 12 August 2026, food-contact packaging must not be placed on the market if it contains PFAS at or above the Regulation's specified limit values (subject to interaction with other Union restrictions). - **2029-01-01 - 90% collection target for single-use beverage containers**: By 2029, 90% of single-use plastic and metal beverage containers (up to three litres) must be collected separately through deposit-return systems or other solutions. - **2030-01-01 - Single-use plastic packaging bans take effect**: Certain single-use plastic packaging types banned from 1 January 2030: packaging for unprocessed fresh fruit and vegetables, foods and beverages filled and consumed in cafes and restaurants, individual portions (condiments, sauces, creamer, sugar), accommodation miniature toiletry packaging, and very lightweight plastic carrier bags (below 15 microns). - **2030-01-01 - All packaging must be recyclable**: All packaging (except lightweight wood, cork, textile, rubber, ceramic, porcelain and wax) must be recyclable by 2030, fulfilling strict criteria based on design for recycling. - **2030-01-01 - 5% packaging waste reduction target (vs 2018)**: Member States must achieve 5% reduction in packaging waste per capita compared to 2018 baseline figures. - **2030-01-01 - Reuse and refill targets for 2030**: Specific 2030 reuse targets apply for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages packaging, transport and sales packaging, grouped packaging. Final distributors must offer 10% of products in reusable packaging format. - **2030-01-01 - Recycled content targets for plastic packaging (2030)**: Plastic packaging must meet minimum recycled content targets by 2030, with increasing targets towards 2040. - **2034-08-12 - Commission evaluation report due**: By 12 August 2034, the Commission must evaluate the regulation and present a report on its main findings to the European Parliament, the Council, and advisory bodies. - **2035-01-01 - 10% packaging waste reduction target (vs 2018)**: Member States must achieve 10% reduction in packaging waste per capita compared to 2018 baseline figures. - **2035-01-01 - Recyclability criteria: recycled-at-scale assessment**: From 2035, recyclability assessment based on both design for recycling and recycled-at-scale criteria for packaging categories. - **2038-01-01 - Minimum recyclability grade B required**: From 1 January 2038, packaging must be at least recyclability grade B to be placed on the market. - **2040-01-01 - 15% packaging waste reduction target (vs 2018)**: Member States must achieve 15% reduction in packaging waste per capita compared to 2018 baseline figures, leading to an overall waste reduction in the EU of approximately 37% compared to business-as-usual scenario. - **2040-01-01 - Recycled content targets for plastic packaging (2040)**: Plastic packaging must meet higher recycled content targets by 2040. --- [Privacy Policy](https://www.sorena.io/privacy) | [Terms of Use](https://www.sorena.io/terms-of-use) | [DMCA](https://www.sorena.io/dmca) | [About Us](https://www.sorena.io/about-us) (c) 2026 Sorena AB (559573-7338). All rights reserved. Source: https://www.sorena.io/artifacts/eu/packaging-waste-regulation