The European Parliament and Council officially adopted the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40 (PPWR) on December 19, 2024. The regulation was formally published on January 22, 2025, and came into effect on February 11, 2025.

Under the new regulation, the use of PFAS in food-contact materials is entirely banned, and stringent recycled content requirements are imposed on packaging materials.

PPWR outlines key deadlines leading up to 2040.

Key Requirements by December 31, 2025:

1. Recycling Targets: EU member states must achieve a 65% recycling rate for all packaging waste (by weight), with specific targets as follows:

   • Wood: 25%
   • Aluminum or Plastic: 50%
   • Ferrous Metals or Glass: 70%
   • Paper and Cardboard: 75%

2. Substance Reporting: Member states must report to the European Commission and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) any substances that negatively impact the reuse or recycling of packaging materials.

3. Baseline Year Adjustment: Member states may choose a baseline year other than 2018 to measure progress toward reducing per capita packaging waste.

Technical Requirements for Packaging Manufacturers and Importers

The PPWR regulation sets fundamental technical standards for manufacturers and importers of general packaging in the EU, ensuring compliance with sustainability and recyclability objectives.

More details on these requirements will follow as implementation progresses.