European Union implements new packaging and waste regulations

EU packaging regulation PPWR waste reduction PFAS limits e-commerce packaging

The European Union has begun implementing the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which aims to reduce waste and promote recycling. The regulation, which entered into force on February 11, 2025, introduces several key mandates for manufacturers, retailers, and e-commerce platforms.

One major provision targets the reduction of empty space in packaging. By 2030, the amount of empty space in group, transport, and e-commerce packaging must not exceed 50 percent. This measure is intended to curb the transport of unnecessary air and reduce material consumption.

Additionally, the regulation introduces stricter chemical safety standards by placing new limits on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food-contact packaging. The rules also extend to specific items like coffee capsules, which must now feature clearer labeling regarding their material composition and proper disposal methods to facilitate better waste sorting.

While the regulation aims for environmental sustainability, industry groups have expressed concerns regarding potential logistical challenges and increased costs for consumers.

Entities

Cartonpack Group · DEKRA · Deutsche Umwelthilfe · European Commission · European Food Safety Authority · European Parliament · European Union · European Union Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation · Eurostat · GS1 · GS1 Bulgaria · Greenpeace

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 23 SOURCES] The new rules apply to all packaging placed on the EU market, whether produced within the EU or imported from third countries. mix929.com · www.cmjornal.pt · italiaveranews.it · denar.mk · originltd.com · +13 more
[● 11 SOURCES] The EU aims to reduce packaging waste by 5% by 2030 and 15% by 2040 compared to 2018 levels. mix929.com · best-tv.gr · commission.europa.eu · envirotecmagazine.com · www.renovablesverdes.com
[● 3 SOURCES] During the initial implementation phase, EU Member States are advised to provide guidance and warnings rather than immediate fines. www.cmjornal.pt · www.jornaldenegocios.pt
[● 56 SOURCES] The EU is implementing new packaging and packaging waste regulations starting 12 August 2026. mix929.com · www.derstandard.at · italiaveranews.it · bnn.de · nordnesrepublikken.no · +26 more
[● 15 SOURCES] Manufacturers and importers must provide information to allow packaging to be traced back to its source. mix929.com · italiaveranews.it · www.cmjornal.pt · best-tv.gr · www.jornaldenegocios.pt · +3 more
[● 10 SOURCES] A harmonized EU-wide labeling system for waste sorting is scheduled to be implemented in 2028. mix929.com · best-tv.gr · commission.europa.eu · glommapapp.no · www.renovablesverdes.com
[● 40 SOURCES] New limits are being placed on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food-contact packaging. mix929.com · italiaveranews.it · bnn.de · nordnesrepublikken.no · www.cmjornal.pt · +13 more
[● 7 SOURCES] DEKRA has warned that the new limits are very low, posing a risk of accidental exceedance through trace contamination. bnn.de · www.renovablesverdes.com
[● 7 SOURCES] Packaging for transport and e-commerce must have no more than 50 percent empty space starting in 2030. bnn.de · alltagsmagazin.de · 98fmnews.com.br · www.metro.cz
[● 2 SOURCES] Coffee capsules are now classified as packaging, requiring specific disposal instructions on labels. www.chiccheinformatiche.com · www.iltelegrafolivorno.it
[○ 1 SOURCE] Packaging materials must not exceed 100 mg/kg of heavy metals like lead, cadmium, or mercury. www.tecno-med.es
[● 2 SOURCES] By 2030, empty space in group, transport, and e-commerce packaging must not exceed 50 percent. www.metro.cz