The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) marks a decisive turning point for the packaging industry. As an EU regulation that is directly applicable, it will fundamentally change packaging requirements in the coming years – from design and material selection to recyclability and documentation.
For our customers, this means one thing above all else: the need for action. For us at Solipac GmbH, it means taking responsibility for providing guidance and identifying practical solutions.
What is the PPWR – and why is it so relevant?
The PPWR replaces the previous Packaging Directive and pursues a clear goal: less packaging waste, more reuse, complete recyclability and a functioning internal market for sustainable packaging.
Essentially, the PPWR regulates, among other things, the reduction of packaging quantities, the use of sustainable materials and clear requirements for recycling and reuse – uniformly and bindingly throughout Europe.
The most important PPWR rules at a glance
For companies that place packaging on the market within the EU, the new requirements can be reduced to a few key principles:
- Packaging avoidance: Packaging must be reduced to the functionally necessary minimum. Oversized or unnecessary packaging will no longer be permitted in future.
- Recyclability: All packaging must be designed to be recyclable according to uniform EU criteria (‘design for recycling’).
- Use of recycled materials: Mandatory minimum proportions of recycled material apply to plastic packaging, which will increase gradually.
- Reusable & reuse: Reusable and reuse solutions are being promoted and, in some cases, made mandatory, particularly in the B2B and transport sectors.
- Labelling and transparency: Standardised EU labelling is intended to facilitate proper disposal and improve recycling rates.
- Clear responsibility: Manufacturers, brand owners and importers bear full responsibility for the PPWR compliance of their packaging.
These rules make it clear that the PPWR affects not only individual materials, but the entire packaging concept.
What does the PPWR mean for businesses in concrete terms?
Many companies are facing the same questions: Will existing packaging still be permitted? Will materials or designs need to be adapted? And how can sustainability, product protection and cost-effectiveness be reconciled?
One thing is certain: the PPWR will require changes – but these can be planned for. Those who act early will gain security and flexibility.
Opportunity for differentiation
At Solipac, the new EU Packaging Regulation is seen not only as a regulatory obligation, but also as a strategic opportunity. It is not enough to simply react to legal changes – those who want to remain market leaders must implement tomorrow’s standards today.
The focus is clearly on recyclable mono-materials such as HDPE and paper, the targeted reduction of composite materials and transparent communication on material composition. These principles are in line with the PPWR requirements – and at the same time create real added value for our customers.
Customer communication means thinking ahead
At Solipac GmbH, we see customer communication as active support during times of change. We translate complex regulatory requirements into understandable, practical and future-proof packaging solutions.
Our commitment:
- Early evaluation of existing packaging
- Development of PPWR-compliant alternatives
- Transparent communication about materials and possible applications
- Consulting based on partnership and mutual respect
Conclusion
The PPWR brings new rules – and new opportunities. It is not only what changes that is crucial, but how early and consistently you act.
Solipac supports its customers in translating regulatory requirements into sustainable, marketable and future-proof packaging solutions.
