Packaging and packaging waste: a major turning point for the European Union
Adopted after more than two years of negotiations, the European Regulation on Packaging and Packaging Waste (PPWR) marks a decisive step forward for the circular economy. It is part of the European Green Pact and aims to make Europe the first climate neutral continent by 2050. This text harmonises the obligations of Member States, manufacturers and marketers, while strengthening the EU's global environmental competitiveness.
The European Regulation on packaging and packaging waste,Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation 2025/40 (PPWR), requires significant changes in the design, use and end-of-life of packaging. It is structured around three main axes:
• Reduction of packaging through eco-design and limitation of unnecessary packaging.
• Reuse of packaging, with progressive objectives in particular in the beverage and catering sector.
• Enhanced recycling, with an obligation for all packagings to be recyclable by 2030.
The Regulation provides for progressive application, with first obligations for 2025 and several important deadlines by 2040.
Overview of several future obligations:
Eco-design and integration of recycled materials:
By 2030, PET food packagings will have to contain 30% recycled material and 50% by 2040. Other food plastic packagings will have to incorporate at least 10% of recycled material by 2030. For single-use plastic bottles, the target is set at 30% in 2030 and 65% in 2040.
Promotion of re-employment:
• Target of 10% re-useable packaging by 2030, with an increase of 40% in 2040 for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
• The catering and take-out sectors will have to offer reusable packaging and a charging device by 2030.
Material recycling targets:
• 65% of packaging waste will have to be recycled by 2025 and 70% by 2030.
• Specific thresholds apply to materials such as plastic, glass, metal and paper.
A reinforced frame of plastic and sorting
Plastic is particularly targeted with the harmonization of markings from 2028 onwards. Businesses will have to clearly inform consumers about sorting, re-use and integration instructions for recycled material.
Some prohibitions are already in place, including:
• Prohibition of single-use plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables by 2030.
• Elimination of mini shampoo bottles and other small disposable packaging in hotels.
• Reduction of complex and multilayered packaging, often difficult to recycle.
The PPWR will come into force in February 2025 and will apply from 12 August 2026. Some measures will be immediate, while others will gradually apply until 2040. Companies must now integrate these requirements into their packaging strategies to ensure compliance and to contribute actively to a more sustainable Europe.
This regulation represents a strategic lever to respond to environmental and economic pressures, while strengthening the sovereignty and competitiveness of the European market in the face of global challenges.