EU packaging and packaging waste regulation (PPWR)

While all packaging placed on the market must still be recyclable, now packaging will be considered recyclable when designed for material recycling, and when the waste packaging can be separately collected, sorted and recycled at scale. This latter condition will apply from 2035.
The headline 2030 and 2040 targets for minimum recycled content in plastic packaging have been maintained, with the Commission reviewing the implementation of the 2030 targets by 2034. At the same time, the Commission will also assess the feasibility of the 2040 targets.

The proposed new rules require manufacturers and importers to ensure that the weight and volume of packaging are minimised, except for protected packaging designs. And, in line with the Commission’s proposal the general approach includes overall headline targets for reducing packaging waste, based on 2018 quantities:
5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040.

The Council has set new re-use and re-fill targets for 2030 and 2040.
Different targets apply to large household appliances, take-away packages for food and beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (excluding wine), transport packaging (excluding packaging used for dangerous goods or large-scale equipment and flexible packaging in direct contact with food) and grouped packaging. Cardboard packaging is also exempted from these requirements.

By 2029, member states must set up deposit return systems (DRS) to ensure the separate collection of at least 90% annually of single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage containers.
Systems that were in place prior to the entry into force of the regulation and that achieve the 90% target by 2029 are not required to meet these minimum requirements. Nor are member states reaching a separate collection rate of over 78% in 2026 are also exempt from these requirements.
Restrictions on certain packaging formats include single-use plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables, for food and beverages, condiments, sauces, and small cosmetic and toiletry products used in the hospitality sector.