The EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), a game-changing legal framework, entered into force on 11 February 2025; with most provisions becoming applicable around 12 August 2026. Designed to replace the outdated Packaging Directive, the PPWR introduces sweeping measures to reduce packaging waste, boost recyclability, and accelerate Europe's transition toward a circular economy.
Key Objectives and Requirements
- Waste reduction targets: Packaging waste must drop by 5 % by 2030, 10 % by 2035, and 15 % by 2040 compared to 2018 levels.
- Recyclability mandates: By 2030, all packaging must be recyclable according to new "Design for Recycling" criteria. Packaging under 70% recyclability will be prohibited, rising to 80% minimum from 2038.
- Recycled content rules: Plastic packaging must contain specified minimum percentages of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content; e.g., 30% for PET, 35% for other plastics, with increases by 2040.
- Single-use plastic restrictions: Bans include pre-packed fruit/vegetables under 1.5 kg and condiment sachets in HORECA (hotel, restaurant, catering) sectors.
- Refill and reuse ambitions: Takeaways must offer refill options, and reuse targets are set for transport and grouped packaging; 40% by 2030, increasing later.
- PFAS and hazardous substances: Strict limits on PFAS (per-and poly fluoroalkyl substances, colloquially known as "forever chemicals") in food-contact packaging take effect from August 2026.
These ambitious mandates are not just regulatory, they also act as a call for manufacturers and brands to innovate in eco-design, packaging materials, and performance documentation.
How can Impact Solutions Help?
At Impact Solutions, we offer a wide range of testing for packaging sustainability, driven by our expert team. We provide comprehensive, science-backed testing solutions. Whether developing new products or assessing the environmental footprint of existing materials, we help navigate the complexities of biodegradability testing, manufacturing using recyclate material, and benchmarking recycled material performance.
What sets Impact Solutions apart is its bespoke, client-focused approach. We can develop tailored tests to match specific needs, whether it's compostability testing, biodegradation performance or disintegration testing.
Why Testing Matters: Preparing for PPWR
- Compliance Assurance
Impact Solutions can help businesses to validate that new packaging materials are truly compostable or biodegradable, aligning with PPWR's expectations for recyclable and safe packaging.
- Future-Proofing Packaging Design
As EU regulations evolve, especially concerning PFAS bans and PCR content thresholds, Impact Solutions empowers companies to test ahead, refine formulations, and ensure smooth compliance.
- Fast-Track Innovation
With bespoke packaging testing and expert guidance, businesses can pilot sustainable packaging innovations, gather evidence, and confidently enter a market increasingly governed by PPWR mandates.
- Reinforcing Sustainability Credentials
Independent, UKAS-accredited validation of sustainability claims helps brands avoid greenwashing scrutiny and reinforces trust with regulators, retailers, and conscious consumers.
Conclusion
The EU's Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation marks a significant leap toward packaging circularity; Impact Solutions is ready to support this shift. Through expert biodegradation testing, accreditation, and bespoke services, our laboratory helps companies meet PPWR's updated standards, innovate sustainably, and safeguard compliance as the packaging landscape transforms.
For packaging professionals seeking to navigate PPWR with confidence, Impact Solutions can help lead the way, helping shape packaging for a greener, compliant future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)?
The PPWR is the EU's updated framework to reduce packaging waste, increase recyclability, and phase out harmful substances. It sets clear targets for waste reduction, recycled content, and bans on single-use plastics.
When does the PPWR come into effect?
The regulation entered into force in February 2025, with most obligations becoming applicable from August 2026.
Who does the PPWR apply to?
It applies to all companies placing packaging on the EU market; from manufacturers to importers, across all sectors.
How can Impact Solutions help businesses comply with PPWR?
Impact Solutions provides UKAS-accredited packaging testing for biodegradability, recyclability, and compostability. They help businesses prove compliance, validate claims, and future-proof packaging designs. We can also assess material containing recycled content to benchmark performance against virgin materials.
Take Action Today
If your business is preparing for the EU PPWR deadlines, now is the time to act.
Contact Impact Solutions today to discuss tailored testing, compliance validation, and sustainable packaging innovation that aligns with future EU regulations.
Get in touch with our team and ensure your packaging is ready for 2030 and beyond.
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