The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) sets out key requirements regarding packaging resources and recycling and has applied since the 12th August 2026. It replaces the existing Packaging Waste Directive.

The new regulation applies to all packaging and packaging waste.

The regulation is being implemented in phases with increasing targets for 2030 and 2040. The aim is to remove our dependency on fossil fuels, cut greenhouse gases, decrease pollution and reduce expensive waste.

A form of harmonised labelling will be introduced throughout the EU, as well as common-sense packaging methods and deposit & return systems. Single-use plastics will be banned.

The regulations will introduce:

• A prohibition on placing food-contact packaging containing per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) above specific concentration thresholds on the market
• A combined cap of 100 mg/kg for lead, cadmium, mercury and hexavalent chromium (heavy metals) within packaging

Businesses need to contact their packaging suppliers to confirm that their packaging is compliant and request that a conformity assessment is completed by the manufacturer.

The manufacturer is responsible for the conformity assessment. Normally, the manufacturer will be the legal or natural person who creates the packaging.

Manufacturers are responsible for:

• Undertaking the conformity assessment, ensuring that packaging placed on the market meets the sustainability requirements
• Maintaining the technical documentation for the relevant time period: 5 years for single-use and 10 years for reusable packaging
• Providing on the packaging, or using a QR code, their registered trade name or registered trademark, their postal address and an electronic means of communication such as an email address

We will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, speak to our team if you have any questions.