EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)

To be ready by 12 August 2026, any business placing packaged products on the EU market, including packaging manufacturers, importers, and distributors should run a practical “readiness check” against the key building blocks of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).  

The goal is simple: make sure your packaging, paperwork, and registrations are in place before products are placed on the EU market. 

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Action list for 12 August 2026 

  • Engage suppliers early
    Request material composition data, compliance declarations and supporting evidence from packaging suppliers. Many PPWR obligations rely on information obtained through the supply chain. 
  • Confirm PFAS compliance (food-contact packaging)
    If your packaging touches food, ask suppliers to confirm it meets the PPWR PFAS limits—specifically that intentionally added PFAS are below 25 ppb (and that supporting evidence is available where needed).
  • Collect Declarations of Conformity (DoCs)
    Make sure you have a signed EU Declaration of Conformity for each distinct packaging type you place on the market (different materials, structures, or formats). This should be supported by a technical file and kept accessible for audits or customer requests.
  • Ensure EPR registrations are active
    Check that you are properly registered under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in every EU Member State where you sell packaged products—and that your reporting and fee processes are set up.
  • Reduce “empty space” and unnecessary packaging
    Review pack designs to remove avoidable layers and excess void space. As a rule of thumb, aim to keep empty space below 30% of the total pack volume and document your design rationale.
  • Review packaging identification and contact details
    Confirm that packaging can be identified through a type, batch, serial number or equivalent mark, and that the producer's name, trade name/trademark and contact address are available on-pack, via a QR code/digital medium, or in accompanying documentation where permitted. 
  • Appoint an EU-based representative (if you’re non-EU)
    If your manufacturing site is outside the EU/EEA, consider appointing an EU-authorised representative to hold compliance documentation and act as the local point of contact for PPWR-related requests.
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