Unpacking the New EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR): A Summary of Key Requirements

Key Requirements of the PPWR – Whitepaper Overview:

Regulation (EU) 2025/40 (the PPWR) introduces comprehensive packaging requirements aimed at enhancing sustainability and circular economy goals, with a focus on reducing waste across Member States.

This whitepaper breaks down the key compliance measures for businesses, providing a clear roadmap for adapting to the new regulation.

It Covers:

• Restrictions on the use of substances of concern in packaging, including limits on PFAS in food-contact packaging;
• A requirement for all packaging placed on the market to be recyclable;
• Minimum recycled content requirements for plastic packaging;
• Measures to ensure packaging minimization;
• Harmonized packaging labeling requirements (to be expanded upon by future implementing acts);
• The imposition of re-use targets on economic operators; and
• Extended producer responsibility provisions.

*This whitepaper was originally published on 19th February, 2025. Further regulatory developments may have occurred after publication. To keep up-to-date with the latest compliance news, sign up to our newsletter.

Authors

Rúan Doherty, Regulatory Compliance Analyst, Compliance & Risks

Rúan is a Regulatory Analyst with the Global Regulatory Compliance team. In her role, she monitors and analyses global regulatory developments across various industry sectors. Her work is concentrated on a number of key topics including Packaging, Single-use Plastics, and ESG Reporting.

Rúan holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Master of Laws in International Human Rights Law.

Conor O’Donoghue, Regulatory Compliance Specialist, Compliance & Risks

Conor is a Regulatory Compliance Specialist in the Global Regulatory Compliance Team within Compliance & Risks. He supports clients with their compliance obligations in relation to Packaging, RoHS and Anti-Bribery and Corruption.

Conor holds a Bachelors of Law and an LL.M. in Environmental and Natural Resources Law.