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Overview of PPWR regulations

Uniform legislative framework for packaging

The revised Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) of 2024 aims to establish a uniform legislative framework for all EU member states to meet packaging waste reduction targets. These regulations have far-reaching implications for companies in the packaging industry and will also affect Optimum Group's operations.

PPWR: New Standards for Packaging

Innovation and Sustainability in the Packaging Industry

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) of 2024 introduces new regulations for all EU member states, aimed at reducing packaging waste and improving recycling processes. This regulation imposes stricter requirements on packaging design principles, the use of recycled materials, and the minimum dimensions of packaging.

Optimum Group supports this transition to sustainable packaging solutions and helps companies comply with the new PPWR requirements, focusing on innovation and environmental friendliness.

  • Packaging Minimization: Reduction in weight, volume, and the number of layers in packaging. Empty space may not exceed 50%.
  • Recycled Material: Plastic packaging must meet minimum percentages of recycled material.
  • Compliance Declarations: Companies must maintain packaging records and demonstrate compliance with the PPWR.

Together, we ensure that your packaging meets these requirements to remain compliant.

Welcome to 2025!

The year in which the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will officially come into effect (11-02-2025). The introduction of this law has sparked a lot of discussion and kept us all engaged.

Read the full blog here!

What makes packaging truly circular? Discover the 3 key pillars: what is technically possible, legally allowed, and what we as producers and consumers are willing to do. Read more!

Read the full blog here!

Drie elementen die samen moeten vallen om een product, verpakking, branche en uiteindelijk zelfs een gehele markt circulair te maken. Deze maand nemen we samen de eerste pijler onder de loep: wat kán er eigenlijk?

Read the full blog here!

Discover in part 2 of our PPWR series what packaging will still be allowed. A practical overview of permitted applications by sector.

Read the full blog here!

Optimum Day 2024!

The masterclasses were a great success!

Here are the highlights from the previous masterclasses! If you'd like to have a Masterclass at your location, feel free to contact us to discuss the possibilities!

Contact us.

 

Design for Recycling

Recyclability scores for packaging

From 2025, packaging must comply with the principles of Design for Recycling. This means that packaging will be assessed for its recyclability and compatibility with existing recycling streams. The scores are classified as follows:

Score A: Highest recyclability
Score B: Average recyclability
Score C: Lowest recyclability
From 2035, the Recycled at Scale (RaS) score will be applied to determine whether packaging can be effectively recycled within the existing infrastructure. Packaging with a score below 70% is considered non-recyclable.

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Packaging Minimisation

Reducing packaging to minimum dimensions

From 1 January 2030, all packaging must be reduced to the minimum dimensions to avoid unnecessary use of material. This includes minimising the weight, volume and number of layers of packaging while maintaining safety and functionality. A maximum ratio of 50% empty space will be allowed for grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging.

Gerecycled Materiaal

Minimum requirements for recycled plastic

Minimum requirements are set for the use of recycled material in plastic packaging. By 2030, the recycled material content in contact-sensitive PET packaging must be at least 30%, rising to 50% by 2040. Similar requirements apply to other plastic packaging, with percentages ranging from 10% to 65%, depending on the type of packaging.

tailor-made advice

Compostable and Biodegradable Packaging

New requirements for eco-friendly packaging

The new regulations also include requirements for compostable and biodegradable packaging. Such packaging must be biodegradable in uncontrolled conditions (home compostable) and must not interfere with recycling streams. Bio-based plastics, made from biomass, are now recognised and their applicability will be assessed within three years.

Prevention targets and Collection

Reduction and separate collection of packaging waste

Ambitious targets have been set for the reduction of packaging waste per capita, ranging from a 5% reduction by 2025 to 37% by 2040. Deposit schemes for specific packaging will be introduced from 2029, with the aim of collecting at least 90% of such packaging.

Reuse and Refill

Targets for reusable packaging

From 1 January 2030, reuse and refill will become mandatory for certain product categories. For alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including water and juices, the reuse rate must be 10% by 2030 and 40% by 2040. Transport packaging must also be reusable, with targets of 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2040.

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