The EU has begun applying parts of its Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) from 12 August, marking the start of a phased introduction of the new framework.
One of the first provisions to take effect is a limit on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in packaging that comes into contact with food.
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Under the rule, such packaging cannot be sold on the EU market if PFAS content exceeds the prescribed thresholds.
The restriction targets the so-called “forever chemicals”, a category of substances known for their persistence and ability to build up in the environment and the human body.
The regulation also brings in common definitions across member states, including for manufacturers and for producers covered by extended producer responsibility rules for packaging.
In addition, some packaging must now carry markings and information that allow manufacturers or importers to be identified and contacted where necessary.
Further changes are scheduled for 2028, when a single EU-wide labelling system for packaging is due to be introduced to assist waste sorting and improve the operation of recycling and composting streams.
Most of the regulation’s requirements are set to apply from 2030.
These include steps to curb packaging waste such as limits on empty space, reuse targets, and rules affecting very small single-use plastic packaging formats used in hotels and restaurants.
Other measures due from 2030 are focused on circularity, including compulsory use of recycled plastic waste in new plastic packaging and a requirement for all packaging to be recyclable.
The European Commission (EC) said it is preparing the secondary legislation needed for the rollout and will continue discussions with national authorities, industry and civil society on implementation.
The PPWR entered into force in February 2025. Its provisions are being introduced in stages from 12 August 2026.
The EC said that without intervention, EU packaging waste was expected to increase by 19% by 2030, while plastic packaging waste could rise by up to 46%.
Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy commissioner Jessika Roswall said: “The new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation is an investment in Europe’s future: it will help reduce waste, increase recycling, make food-contact packaging safer for the consumers by limiting harmful substances such as PFAS, and reduce our dependence on virgin raw materials. These are essential steps towards a truly circular economy.
“At the same time, the regulation will replace fragmented national rules difficult to navigate for economic operators in the internal market. But new rules also come with adjustment costs, and we have worked intensively with market operators to implement the new rules in a pragmatic and unbureaucratic way.”
