On August 12, a unified packaging regulation came into effect for all EU member states. Is your packaging ready for it?
Packaging that has worked well and complied with requirements so far might no longer be suitable under the same terms.
Most companies focus daily on product development, sales, and customer service. If the packaging works and serves its purpose, there is usually no reason to give it a second thought.
The new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40, or PPWR, turns that line of thinking on its head.
This now-effective regulation introduces new requirements for businesses across several categories. If a packaging solution does not comply with these upcoming standards, a company may need to redesign its packaging or adjust its production process. This can lead to additional costs, time pressure, and disruptions to regular operations.
What Has Changed?
In broad terms, the goal of the PPWR is to reduce packaging waste, make packaging easier to recycle, and eliminate unnecessary material use. It also aims to increase the share of reusable packaging and harmonize packaging requirements across the entire European Union.
Companies must now pay much closer attention to what their packaging consists of and what happens to it after use.
In practice, this means it is worth reviewing:
- Materials used and their composition: Are there materials in the packaging that are difficult to separate or recycle? Does it contain substances or materials subject to restrictions?
- Material efficiency: Does the packaging use more material than is actually necessary to protect and function properly?
- Options for reuse or recycling: How does the packaging move forward after use, and can its material be routed back into recycling?
It makes sense to review your packaging before changes become unavoidable and lead to higher expenses.
Why Act Now?
Updating packaging doesn’t happen overnight.
It often involves evaluating different materials, testing new solutions, making samples, and conducting trial packing on the customer’s production line. The earlier you start the process, the easier it is to find a solution that works both technically and economically while fully complying with the newly enacted regulation.
Last-minute decisions are frequently more expensive, offer fewer choices, and bring intense time pressure.
How Can a Packaging Partner Help?
You don’t need to know every detail of the regulation or be a packaging expert.
A trusted packaging partner is here to lend a hand!
The Ecoprint team helps evaluate your existing packaging, recommends materials that comply with the regulation, and finds solutions that work for both your business and the law.
Summary
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40 (PPWR) affects all companies that place primary or secondary packaged products on the market. The sooner you review your packaging, the easier it will be to avoid rushed decisions and unexpected costs.
If you are not sure whether your packaging meets the new requirements, get in touch with us. We are just one click away.
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