EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation adopted

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) was adopted by the European Council on the 16 December 2024, with two countries absenting.  

The Regulation replaces the existing Directive and contains ambitious targets and proposals, which the European Parliament states will make ‘packaging used in the EU safer and more sustainable’. 

The legislation is expected to be signed in the next few days. It will then be published in the Official Journal of the European Union, around 20 days later, and subsequently enter into force in January 2025. The regulation will then apply after an 18 month transition period, in 2026.  

What are the specific targets? 

• An agreement to reduce packaging placed on the market by 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035 and 15% by 2040. 
• A ban on specific single-use plastic packaging formats such as packaging around fresh vegetables and fruit, around condiments used in the dine-in hospitality sector, and miniature cosmetic bottles used in hotels. 
• It was also agreed that specific reuse targets would be set for packaging around beverages – both alcoholic and non-alcoholic – of at least 10% by 2030, with the same applying to take-away food in the food service sector. 
• Recyclability and recycled content targets were also agreed. For instance, all packaging placed on the EU market must be recyclable by 2030.  

Of the 27 EU Member States, only Malta and Austria abstained from voting in favour, the former citing concerns around increased cost and administration in return for unclear environmental benefit. The Austrian written statement also stated apprehension around competitiveness.   

The UK is unlikely to follow suit, but businesses trading in the EU will have to ensure compliance and navigate the new rules carefully. Ahead of implementation in 2026, secondary legislation will be drafted and published. This will provide more detail on the new rules, and a framework for affected businesses to comply in various Member States.  

For support with international compliance regulations, please get in touch with us at info@ecosurety.com, or find out more about our international compliance services.