Update on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)

At Emballator, we want to keep our customers and partners informed about regulatory developments that affect packaging and production. Below is an overview of the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and what it may mean in practice.

What is PPWR?

PPWR is a new EU regulation designed to reduce packaging waste and harmonise packaging rules across Member States. It supports the wider transition towards a circular economy by setting clearer, stricter requirements for packaging placed on the EU market.

What does PPWR include?

A central part of the regulation is ensuring that packaging is both reusable and recyclable, and that plastic packaging contains a minimum share of recycled content.

The regulation is expected to be finalised by the EU Council during the autumn. Once adopted, it is planned to enter into force 18 months later—likely in mid to late 2026.

Impacts and goals

PPWR will have a significant impact on the packaging industry as well as on brands and consumers. The EU aims to reduce packaging waste by at least 15% by 2040, compared with 2018 levels.

To reach this target, the legislation introduces requirements for improved recyclability, minimum recycled content in plastic packaging and mandatory quotas for reusable packaging.

Process and preparation

Although PPWR is not yet final, the EU Commission, Parliament and Council reached a preliminary agreement in April. The proposal has since been adopted in the European Parliament’s plenary vote. The final step is approval by the Council of Ministers.

At Emballator, we follow the process closely and continue preparing for the changes ahead. Our goal is to stay proactive and ensure we can support customers throughout the transition.

How Emballator can help

We are committed to offering products and services that meet the new requirements—today and in the future. If you would like to understand how PPWR may affect your packaging or what the regulation means for your business, our team is here to help.

Please feel free to get in touch with us for more information.