New EU rules for sustainable packaging were approved by the Council of the European Union on December 16, 2024. The regulation, known as PPWR - Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, will introduce measures to reduce waste and promote reuse.
The Council of the EU today officially adopted a new regulation on packaging and packaging waste, which will bring significant changes to packaging materials across the EU. The new rules aim to reduce waste and promote more efficient reuse of packaging, taking into account the entire life cycle of packaging.
Key measures in the new rules:
- Binding recycling targets: Targets for a minimum share of recycled content in packaging, including 65% for single-use plastic bottles by 2040.
- Waste minimisation: The regulation sets out obligations to minimise the weight and volume of packaging and to prevent overpackaging.
- Restrictions on single-use plastic packaging: Restrictions are introduced on single-use packaging for products such as unpackaged fruit and vegetables, food and drinks in restaurants, small beauty products in hotels and very lightweight plastic bags.
- Labelling requirements: New labelling for packaging, including information on material composition and recycled content, will help consumers sort and choose more sustainable products.
Reuse targets and obligations for establishments: The new rules introduce binding packaging reuse targets by 2030. Establishments will be obliged to offer customers the option to bring their own containers to fill drinks and meals at no extra charge.
Next steps: Following today's formal approval by the Council, the regulation will be published in the Official Journal of the EU. It will then enter into force 20 days after publication. It will take effect 18 months after that date. This legislative step is an important step towards achieving the objectives of a circular economy and climate neutrality in the EU.
Background: The amount of packaging waste in the EU continues to grow, with the EU producing almost 186.5 kg of packaging waste per person in 2022. This problem requires urgent action, which is why the Commission has proposed a new regulation to replace the existing directive and strengthen the framework for packaging and packaging waste. The regulation aims to shift to a more sustainable economic model and reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste.
Source: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/
