The European Commission has published its new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). It bans nonrecyclable packaging from 2030, using design for recycling criteria to measure recyclability. It also provides minimum recycled content targets in plastic packaging, and a harmonised labelling system for packaging disposal.
Shaping the Future with Packaging.
With this regulation, the European Commission aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging
and increase recycling rates throughout the European Union. It will replace the 1994 directive of
the same name. New requirements for packaging manufacturers and their suppliers are foreseen in the
draft, which will come into effect in all EU Member States in two years’ time. The regulation includes
measures such as setting recycling targets for different types of packaging, as well as introducing
economic incentives for the use of more environmentally friendly packaging materials. “This far-reaching regulation is a major step forward in the EU’s efforts to create a more sustainable packaging industry in Europe,” said Beatrice Klose, Secretary General of Intergraf. “It will have a significant impact on the printing and packaging industry, which will need to find new and innovative ways to reduce waste and increase recycling.” What is in the regulation? Waste prevention and re-use measures, including reduction
targets, minimising unneccessary packaging, and re-use/refill targets Full recyclability of packaging
by 2030 based on a recyclability assessment to ensure they meet established design for recycling
(DfR) criteria Labelling and deposit return systems (DRS) to facilitate consumer sorting Compostability requirements for tea and coffee bags, single use tea and coffee systems, fruit and vegetable sticky labels, and very lightweight plastic carrier bags.
Impact on packaging producers
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will have major implications for the entire packaging value chain. As well as national prevention and recycling targets, there will also be prescriptive requirements that are directly applicable to manufacturers and their suppliers. The proposed legislation
also raises questions that the European Commission will need to address. What about controlling imports/exports produced outside of the EU? What will be the role of public authorities? And what will be the cost for consumers?
Source – Intergraf Feb 2023