PPWR

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is the EU’s new regulation on packaging and packaging waste and became applicable on 12 August 2026. The regulation aims to reduce the amount of packaging waste generated in the EU and introduces requirements related to packaging design, reuse, recycling, and extended producer responsibility. PPWR applies to businesses that manufacture, import, distribute, sell, or use packaging on the EU market.

The regulation covers virtually all packaging placed on the EU market, regardless of material type, whether the packaging is empty or contains a product, and whether it is used in industry, trade, distribution, offices, services, or households. The requirements also apply to packaging manufactured outside the EU but placed on the EU market.

Among other things, PPWR requires packaging to be recyclable, contain a certain proportion of recycled content, minimise weight and volume, and restrict the presence of substances of concern, such as PFAS. Packaging must also be labelled with harmonised information regarding material composition and sorting instructions.

How BDO can help

At BDO, we can support your organisation in:

• Understanding which PPWR requirements are relevant to your business.
• Monitoring legislative developments and keeping you informed about new requirements and supplementary delegated acts.
• Establishing processes for collecting information from suppliers, assessing supporting documentation, and preparing technical documentation.

Common PPWR Challenges

• Understanding your company’s role under PPWR
  Requirements and obligations vary depending on the company’s role, such as manufacturer, importer, distributor, or end user. Identifying your organisation’s role under the regulation at an early stage is therefore essential.
• Understanding the applicable requirements
  PPWR contains a wide range of requirements that depend on factors such as the packaging material, function, and intended use.
• Limited information from suppliers
  Companies may need to collect detailed information on packaging materials, composition, recycled content, and recyclability.
• Complex packaging design requirements
  Requirements related to recyclability, minimisation of weight and volume, and restrictions on certain substances may require changes to existing packaging solutions.
• Documentation and traceability
  Companies must be able to demonstrate compliance with the regulation and ensure that relevant technical documentation and supporting evidence are available and maintained.