EU Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Forces Overhaul of Food Packaging Across Europe

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) entered into force on 11 February 2025, with full compliance required from 12 August 2026. The rule aims to cut per‑capita packaging waste by 5 % by 2030, 10 % by 2035 and 15 % by 2040. Key technical pillars include a ban on PFAS‑containing food‑contact packaging, a requirement that empty space in transport and e‑commerce packs not exceed 50 %, and mandatory recyclability of all packages by 2030 with demonstrable industrial‑scale recycling by 2035. Companies must obtain conformity declarations proving PFAS‑free status and compliance with space‑efficiency and recyclability targets.

Industry leaders note the scale of redesign needed. Antonio Castelluccio, commercial director of Pack Sistem, said, “The PPWR imposes restrictions that directly affect how packaging is designed. Companies must abandon the old linear mindset.” German and Danish packaging sectors are already discussing how to meet the new standards, while German officials face criticism that national legislation on reusable (Mehrweg) systems falls short of the EU’s ambition.

The regulation also pushes for stronger reusable‑packaging systems beyond simple return logistics, calling for standardised, cross‑operator solutions to make reusable containers as convenient as single‑use items.