On 22 January, the text of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and its translations were officially published in the Official Journal of the European Union.
Under Article 71 of the Regulation, the text will enter into force on the 20th day following its publication, i.e., on 11 February 2025, and will become applicable starting from 12 August 2026.
An exception applies to Article 67(5), which introduces certain amendments to the SUP (Single-Use Plastics) Directive, scheduled to take effect on 12 February 2029.
A New Era for Packaging in Europe
The PPWR Regulation aims to revolutionise the packaging sector, applying to all packaging (both B2C and B2B), packaging materials, and associated waste. It sets out sustainability and information requirements while promoting waste prevention measures and extended producer responsibility. Simultaneously, it seeks to ensure the smooth functioning of the internal market through harmonised packaging rules.
Key highlights of the text include:
- Definitions and Scope: Article 3 clearly defines key terms such as "packaging," "placing on the market," and "making available on the market." Annex I provides an indicative list of items considered to be packaging.
- Sustainability Measures: The Regulation introduces clear criteria for the design, use, and management of packaging, aiming to reduce environmental impact.
- Regulatory Hierarchy: In case of conflicts, the Directive on hazardous waste and the Directive on the transport of dangerous goods take precedence over the PPWR.
Implementation Timelines
The application of key provisions will follow different timelines:
- General application date: 12 August 2026 (18 months after entry into force).
- Exceptions: Certain amendments, such as those related to the SUP Directive (Article 67(5)), will apply from 12 February 2029.
- Unless otherwise specified, measures will take effect simultaneously with the general application of the Regulation.
It is important to note that the PPWR will repeal Directive 94/62/EC, harmonising packaging regulations across all Member States. The internal market legal basis (Article 114 TFEU) will limit the introduction of national measures that could hinder trade and the free movement of packaged goods.
The PPWR Regulation marks a milestone for the sustainability of packaging in Europe, reinforcing waste prevention and promoting a harmonised and efficient management of the internal market.
