Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive is the main piece of legislation governing packaging and packaging waste in Europe.
The twin objectives of the Directive are to continuously improve the environmental performance of packaging and to facilitate the correct functioning of the EU Internal Market, thereby protecting the free circulation of packaged goods in all member states. Avoiding obstacles to trade and distortions of competition are crucial to the packaging supply chain members of EUROPEN that distribute goods at national, European and global level [1].
Overview
The Directive sets out Recovery and Recycling targets and deadlines for EU Member States and obliges them to address the recovery and recycling of used packaging. It also contains The Essential Requirements for packaging that aim to reduce packaging waste and to put forth design requirements that cater to a wide range of packaging materials and packaged goods. Packaging that meets these requirements is guaranteed free circulation in the European Economic Area [1] [2] .
Directive 2018/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council amended the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive 94/62/EC to include increased packaging recycling targets and better prevention of generation of packaging waste. Additionally, it called for the introduction of reusable packaging producer schemes for all packaging by 2024. The recycling targets for packaging waste was set at a minimum of 60% by 2025 and 70% by 2030 [3].
On 12 August 2026 the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will apply throughout the EU having entered into force on 11 Feb 2025 [4].
The PPWR sets out sustainability and labelling requirements for packaging throughout its life cycle, including production, use and waste management:
- covers all packaging and packaging waste, regardless of material or origin
- sets requirements for manufacturing, composition, and reusable or recoverable nature of all packaging placed on the EU market
- includes packaging waste management and prevention measures
Its aims are:
- to prevent unnecessary packaging and promote reuse, refill and recycling
- make all packaging recyclable by 2030
- encourage reuse, refill and collection
- clearer labelling so that consumers can see what its made of, how it is to be managed and return it for re-use
- PFAS chemicals will be restricted in packaging that comes with food. Brands using non-recyclable or environmentally harmful materials will have to pay to clean them up.
- to harmonise national measures to avoid trade barriers and competition distortions
- to contribute to the circular economy and climate neutrality by 2050.
