PPWR: Be Ready in August

We're getting closer and closer to August 12, 2026 📅

And why does that matter? Well, that’s when many of the new requirements from the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will begin applying.

Are you ready for it?

Hello, PPWR!

From August 12, 2026, many of the new PPWR requirements begin to apply to companies placing packaging or packaged products on the EU market 📦

The goal is to simplify and harmonize EPR rules across the EU + to ensure that packaging materials are designed with circularity in mind to

  • Create less packaging waste

  • Reduce the environmental footprint from packaging

  • Encourage more reuse and recycling

What will change?

📑 Documentation: Companies must be able to prove compliance through technical documentation and provide it if authorities ask.

  • Every EU packaging type must have a manufacturer-issued Declaration of Conformity (DoC) from 12 August 2026.

  • No greenwashing allowed! You can only make claims about aspects that are better than the minimum requirements – and you must be able to document it.

🧪 Chemical restrictions: One of the first things to apply is stricter rules on substances in packaging. This includes limits on heavy metals and new thresholds for PFAS, especially in food packaging.

📦 Harmonized labelling: Packaging must show a harmonized label to make sorting easier for consumers. The EU will establish this in August 2026.

🔎 Traceability: Authorities must be able to trace where packaging materials come from.

Requirements will be phased in over the next years.

From 2030, there will be requirements around packaging design, material composition, and minimum recycled content, and only recyclable packaging can be placed on the EU market.

What should you do now?

Even though some details still need to be clarified, this is a good moment to start preparing. For example:

  • Map the primary packaging materials you use

  • Collect data on material types, certificates and origin

  • Align internally on documentation processes

  • Talk to suppliers about future requirements

One last thing: even though PPWR aims to harmonize rules across the EU, national EPR systems and reporting requirements may still differ. So yes, you still need to keep an eye out for national differences.

Better to start understanding it now than in August 2026 😉

Need help defining your next steps?

Yes, I don't know what to do
ANNE KATRINE BLIRUP