The extended producer responsibility (EPR) and the new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) bring profound changes for companies that place packaging on the market. After the PPWR comes into force at the beginning of 2025, companies will have to deal with stricter packaging requirements Those who do not deal with the new regulations in a timely manner risk not only higher license fees, but also additional bureaucratic hurdles and possible sanctions.

Packaging, Packaging Waste Ordinance – from the Directive to the EU Packaging Ordinance

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Ordinance (PPWR) will be valid throughout the EU from 2025. PPWR and EPR together are transforming the packaging industry.

Your goal is:

• reduce resource consumption and packaging waste,
• to promote the circular economy and
• to reduce the negative environmental impacts of packaging.

In order to implement these objectives in a measurable manner, the PPWR introduces specific measures:

• Minimum requirements for the recyclability of packaging
• labeling requirements for packaging materials
• Use of authorized representatives for companies not based in the respective EU country
• declarations of conformity to demonstrate recyclability

The new requirements mean for packaging, among other things:

• Recyclability is mandatory
• A minimum proportion of post-consumer recyclate (PCR) must be included
• Certain weight limits must be observed
• Labelling requirements for materials will apply across the EU in the future
• Reusability is promoted

Extended producer responsibility – briefly explained

Companies that place products on the market in the EU are responsible for their entire life cycle : This applies not only to the products themselves, but also to packaging and other components that are disposed of by end consumers. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requires companies to ensure take-back and recycling solutions.

In Austria, this currently affects three mandatory areas: packaging, waste electrical and electronic equipment and batteriesHowever, with a view to future development, the Textile recycling is becoming increasingly relevant.

Not only packaging is affected – EPR for textiles

Extended producer responsibility is increasingly affecting textiles. Countries such as France, the Netherlands and Sweden have already introduced EPR obligations. Austria is also preparing for new regulations.

The challenges of textile recycling lie in the diversity of materials – but innovative approaches show what a circular solution can look like.

Eco-modulation: Financial benefits for sustainable packaging

With the PPWR, the principle of eco-modulation gains in importance. Recyclable packaging is rewarded with lower licensing fees, while non-recyclable packaging incurs higher costs.

What does this mean for your company?

The sooner you optimize your packaging, the more you will benefit from lower licensing fees. The transition to sustainable packaging can take months – Therefore, start early with an analysis and optimization!

Find out more about how Interzero can support you in implementing the PPWR!