EU Adopts New Regulations to Reduce Packaging Waste and Promote Sustainability

The European Council has formally adopted the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)  which focuses on reducing packaging waste and promoting sustainability. The rules introduce binding targets for re-use, restrict certain single-use packaging items, and require businesses to minimize packaging material. The regulation also encourages re-use by requiring take-away businesses to allow customers to use their own containers, marking a significant step towards a circular economy in the EU.  

Implementation 

The new regulations adopted by the EU will promote safe, sustainable, and recyclable packaging. These include setting ambitious targets for recycled content, such as 65% for single-use plastic bottles by 2040, and reducing packaging waste by minimizing its weight, volume, and harmful substances such as PFAS. The rules also introduce restrictions on single-use plastics for items such as pre-packed produce, food and drinks consumed in restaurants, small cosmetic products, and lightweight plastic bags. Furthermore, businesses will be required to allow customers to use their own containers for take-away food and drinks, with binding re-use targets set for 2030 and 2040. These changes aim to significantly reduce packaging waste and promote a circular economy across the EU. 

Key measures  

• Targets for recycled content in packaging for 2030 and 2040. 

• Limits on harmful substances such as PFAS.  

• New labelling requirements to help consumers with recycling and waste sorting. 

Entry into force 

The Regulation was published in the Official Journal of the EU on 22 January 2025 and will enter into force 20 days later. Its provisions will apply from 12 February 2026 (except for Article 67(5) which will apply from 12 February 2029. 

The full text of the Regulation can be accessed here.