European Parliament adopts PPWR

On April 24, 2024, the European Parliament adopted the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). This marks a significant step towards a comprehensive regulation aimed at standardizing packaging management at the European level and enhancing waste treatment in all Member States. However, the text is currently under legal scrutiny, and final ratification awaits approval by the upcoming European Parliament, which will be elected in June.

However, this agreement represents a substantial advancement in the fight against pollution and the promotion of a circular economy for packaging. The key challenges include a 5% reduction in packaging by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040.

Additionally, all packaging will need to be recyclable by 2030 and effectively recycled by 2035. Certain types of packaging , such as single-use packaging or extremely light plastic bags, will be banned. The European Commission will implement harmonized standards for compostable packaging requirements.

Economic stakeholders in each Member State will also have to ensure that “empty spaces” in grouped packaging, transport, and e-commerce are reduced by 50%.

Finally, the intentional addition of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, will be banned by 2030.