Europe is producing more packaging waste, while businesses operating across the EU have had to deal with different national packaging rules. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) was introduced to address both challenges: reducing packaging waste and creating clearer, more consistent rules across the European Union.
Over the coming years, the PPWR should lead to less unnecessary packaging, more reuse and a greater use of recycled materials. Packaging must also become easier to recycle, while the use of substances of concern, including PFAS in food-contact packaging, will be restricted. By 2030, packaging placed on the EU market must meet stricter recyclability requirements.
The first PPWR requirements have applied since 12 August 2026. They can affect any business that manufactures packaging, imports packaged goods or places packaging on the European market.
What should businesses do now?
The obligations depend on your role and the packaging involved. As a first step, businesses should:
- Determine their role or roles within the packaging chain.
- Identify the packaging used for their products, including outer and transport packaging.
- Ask suppliers for information about materials, weight and composition.
- Check which conformity documentation must be available for each packaging type.
For importers, the PPWR is not a new customs procedure. It does not currently require additional information or documents in the standard import declaration. However, customs clearance does not automatically mean that the packaging meets the PPWR requirements. That remains a separate responsibility for the relevant businesses within the packaging chain.
Not all requirements apply at once, and several details are still being clarified. Businesses do not need to anticipate every future rule immediately, but should start by understanding their role, organising packaging information and speaking with suppliers.
BTS Logistics will continue to monitor the developments. If future requirements directly affect customs procedures or the movement of goods, we will inform our customers accordingly.
For a more detailed overview of the PPWR requirements, please consult the official information from RVO.