Bunzl

PPWR Legislation

What is the PPWR?

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is new European legislation for all packaging and packaging waste.
Target:
  • Less packaging waste
  • Better recyclability
  • Increased use of recycled materials
  • More re-use of packaging
The PPWR applies to all companies placing packaging or packaged products on the EU market.

When will the legislation take effect?

2030-2040 Further tightening of requirements

Key rules

1. Less packaging

  • Packaging needs to be smaller, lighter and more efficient
  • Less "empty space" (e.g. in e-commerce packaging)

2. 100% recyclable by 2030

  • All packaging must be recyclable
  • Design must meet "design for recycling" criteria

3. More recycled material

From 2030 minimum percentages of recycled plastic:

  • 30% in PET packaging (food)
  • 10-35% in other plastic packaging
  • This continues towards 2040

4. Less harmful substances

  • Restrictions on hazardous substances
  • Ban on certain substances (such as PFAS) in packaging

5. Mandatory recycling

  • Encouraging reusable and refillable packaging
  • Concrete reuse targets per sector

6. Waste reduction targets per EU country

  • 2030: -5% packaging waste
  • 2035: -10%
  • 2040: -15% (vs. 2018)

7. Reporting & accountability

Companies get additional commitments:

  • Demonstrating packaging compliance (declaration of conformity)
  • Registration and reporting
  • Producentenverantwoordelijkheid

Who does this apply to?

The PPWR applies to:
Producers

Producers

Importers

Importers

Wholesalers

Wholesalers

Retailers

Retailers

E-commerce parties

E-commerce parties

In short, anyone who uses or markets packaging.

What does this mean concretely for your organisation?

Companies should prepare for:
  • Customisation of packaging design
  • Use of more sustainable materials
  • Increased share of recyclate
  • Better data and reporting
  • Cooperation in the chain

Why this legislation?

The EU wants to reduce the growth of packaging waste and make the sector more sustainable.
Without action, waste continues to rise sharply.

Summary

The PPWR means:
  • Stricter requirements for packaging
  • Focus on recycling and reuse
  • Less waste and lower environmental impact
For businesses, this means: starting to adapt now is imperative.

Our PPWR - Project team plays a central role in this

Our PPWR - Project team plays a central role in this. They proactively contact suppliers to request the required PFAS and food-contact documentation. This complements their existing role in validating all compliance documentation for food-contact materials.
All information received is then stored centrally in our STEP Product Information Management (PIM) system. This keeps product data consistent, clear and easily accessible within the organisation.
The relevant information is also incorporated into the Declarations of Conformity (DoCs) of the relevant products. By updating these documents, we ensure that our products continue to comply with current and future regulations.
Finally, all PFAS-related documentation is integrated into our existing food-contact compliance files so that it remains part of the regular documentation and control process.
This structured approach ensures that Bunzl Foodservice, together with our suppliers, is timely prepared for the new regulations and can continue to provide our customers with products that comply with European laws and regulations. If you would like tailored advice, please feel free to send a message below.
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