PPWR Regulation: What It Means for Companies Using Flexible Packaging?

The European Parliament has officially approved the updated Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) which is one of the most significant legal acts that will directly affect packaging manufacturers and companies packing their products in plastic or other material packaging.

Unlike previous directives, which could be interpreted differently in each country, the new regulation will be applied uniformly across the EU. The final text, approved in 2024, sets out clear dates, obligations, and specific recyclability criteria. Some measures will take effect as early as 2025 with the main requirements coming into force between 2026 and 2030.

Why is this important?

The PPWR aims to significantly reduce excessive packaging, promote recycling, and accelerate the shift towards a circular economy. This time, the changes come not as recommendations but as specific bans, requirements, and binding obligations.

What is changing?

Here’s how the PPWR will affect Umaras clients, namely, the companies using polyethylene films, flexible or barrier packaging:

1. Mandatory recycled content
   From 2030, all flexible packaging other than contact-sensitive packaging will be required to contain at least 35% recycled plastic. This should be considered already when planning raw material sourcing.
2. Minimum recyclability threshold
   From 2030, it will be prohibited to place on the market any packaging with a recyclability class lower than Class C (less than 70%). This directly affects flexible and multi-layer films, which will no longer be permitted unless they are practically recyclable.
3. Strict recyclability requirements
   All packaging, including multi-layer films, must be not only theoretically but also practically recyclable. If a package cannot be recycled using existing technologies, it will be banned.
4. Overpackaging restrictions
   The so-called packaging-to-product ratio will be introduced, thus determining a maximum allowable packaging size in relation to the product. Excessive layers of film will become not only undesirable but prohibited.
5. Clear labeling
   Packaging (or its labels) will need to feature special icons indicating the packaging’s composition, recyclability, and sorting instructions. This applies even to B2B packaging, which until now was generally not labeled.
6. Producer responsibility for the full lifecycle
   Under stricter Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy, the producers will be accountable not only for using recyclable materials but also for ensuring proper collection and recycling of packaging.

What does this mean for Umaras clients?

If you’re our client, you probably use flexible polyethylene packaging, barrier films, shrink films, or stretch films. The majority of our solutions already meet the main PPWR requirements both in terms of recyclability and material origin.

Moreover, we collaborate with clients who are actively:

1. transitioning to mono-material packaging solutions;
2. optimizing packaging weight;
3. preparing documentation in line with the new requirements.

How can we help?

1. Provide an assessment of whether your packaging meets the new PPWR requirements.
2. Guide you towards packaging solutions that will remain compliant with 2030 standards, including mono-material barrier films and packaging containing recycled content.
3. Support you in gathering the required data and collaborating with partners to carry out LCA/PCF assessments.
4. Provide guidance on labeling and traceability to ensure your packaging is compliant with the PPWR.

UAB Umaras – Your Partner Through Change
Regulations are changing, business demands are shifting, and packaging needs to adapt accordingly. If you want to be ready, get in touch. We’re more than just suppliers – we’re your strategic partners in packaging solutions.

Smart and flexible packaging for better business.

Wondering if your packaging meets the PPWR requirements?
Contact us and we’ll provide an assessment without any obligation.