The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging by imposing strict new design requirements. These new rules require companies to rethink their packaging solutions to improve recyclability, limit waste, and promote a more sustainable circular economy.
1. Objective: 100% recyclable packaging by 2030
One of the main objectives of the PPWR is to ensure that all packaging placed on the European market is fully recyclable by 2030. This means that each type of packaging will have to meet strict design criteria to facilitate its processing and integration into existing recycling chains.
2. Design criteria for recycling
The PPWR imposes several criteria to improve the recyclability of packaging:
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Use of easily recyclable materials : Companies will need to favor materials such as paper, cardboard, aluminum and PET, which already have efficient recycling channels.
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Restrictions on complex packaging : Multi-layer packaging or packaging made up of several materials that are difficult to separate will be gradually banned or must be designed to facilitate recycling.
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Marking and information : Packaging must include clear labels on its composition and sorting instructions in order to improve recycling rates.
3. Restrictions on certain types of packaging
To reduce unnecessary waste, the PPWR imposes restrictions on certain packaging, including:
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Ban on single-use plastic packaging for certain products such as fruits and vegetables, soap samples in the hotel industry or individual packaging.
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Reducing packaging volume : Companies will need to optimize the size and shape of their packaging to limit empty space and thus reduce waste and carbon footprint.
4. Towards reusable and refillable packaging
Another key focus of the PPWR is the promotion of reusable and refillable packaging. Companies will be encouraged to offer solutions that reduce waste production at source. This particularly concerns the fast food sector, beverage packaging, and food distribution.
5. What are the obligations for companies?
Companies will have to comply with these new requirements by adapting their production lines and investing in more sustainable materials and solutions. They will also have to implement tracking and reporting systems to demonstrate their compliance with the new rules.
Conclusion
The PPWR regulation marks a turning point for the packaging industry in Europe. By imposing stricter requirements, it encourages innovation and the transition to more sustainable solutions. For companies, this represents a challenge, but also an opportunity to anticipate future consumer expectations and contribute to environmental protection.
Stay informed about the next steps in PPWR implementation to adapt your packaging strategies and ensure your compliance with this essential regulation.
