Eco
The EU PPWR: What the Packaging Regulation Means for Buyers
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) sets a common, EU-wide direction for how packaging is designed, used and recovered. Here is a plain-English summary for buyers, and practical steps you can take now.
Where the rules are heading
The PPWR moves the whole market towards packaging that is easier to reuse and recycle. The main themes are:
- Recyclability by design — packaging should be designed so it can actually be collected, sorted and recycled at scale.
- Recycled-content targets — plastic packaging is expected to include a rising share of recycled material over time.
- Waste and over-packaging reduction — limits on empty space and unnecessary layers push buyers to right-size what they order.
- Harmonised labelling — clearer, more consistent marks to help sorting and correct disposal across member states.
What this means in practice
| Theme | Buyer impact |
|---|---|
| Recyclability | Favour widely recyclable formats and materials |
| Recycled content | Ask about recycled input in plastics |
| Waste reduction | Match pack size to the product |
| Labelling | Expect more standardised on-pack marks |
What you can do now
- Right-size boxes and bottles so you ship the product, not air — our boxes come in a range of capacities and dimensions.
- Choose mono-material where you can; single-material packs are simpler to recycle than mixed constructions.
- Prefer recyclable formats such as HDPE and PET bottles and plain corrugated board.
- Review your range now so future changes are gradual, not last-minute.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules are evolving and details differ by product and member state, so always check the current requirements for your market.
Talk to us
Planning a move to more sustainable packaging? Our team can help you compare formats and right-size your range. Get in touch, or read our companion recyclable packaging buyer's guide.