The new EU packaging and packaging waste regulation brings significant changes

The EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) (EU) 2025/40 entered into force on 11 February 2025 and will start to apply from 12 August 2026. Some requirements will apply later during transitional periods. 

The Regulation applies to all packaging regardless of the material used, as well as all packaging waste regardless of where the packaging is used or where the waste is generated. The reform introduces new obligations for companies and further specifies packaging requirements across the EU. 

Article 19 of the PPWR sets out obligations for distributors, while Article 21 specifies situations in which manufacturer obligations also apply to importers and distributors. The Regulation also includes packaging waste reduction targets affecting European companies. 

For example, all manufacturer obligations apply to companies importing products from outside the EU. 

New obligations for packaging and companies

Under the new Regulation, only packaging that complies with the PPWR requirements may be placed on the market from 12 August 2026 onwards. 

Before placing packaging on the market, manufacturers must, among other things: 

• carry out a conformity assessment procedure  

• prepare technical documentation in accordance with the Regulation  

• draw up an EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC)  
• mark the packaging with the manufacturer’s contact details and a unique packaging identifier  

The Regulation also introduces new requirements related to areas such as packaging recyclability, reusability and digital solutions. 

What should companies take into account?

Companies that manufacture, import or package products for the EU market are responsible for ensuring packaging compliance. The new Regulation places particular emphasis on: 

• material efficiency and recyclability of packaging  

• restrictions on hazardous substances  

• reuse and recovery of packaging  
• documentation and demonstration of compliance  

In addition, the requirements increasingly cover the entire packaging lifecycle, including waste management and recycling. 

Application and transitional periods

The Regulation will apply from 12 August 2026, but not all requirements will become applicable at the same time. Companies should prepare for the changes well in advance and ensure that packaging and related documentation comply with the future requirements before the transitional periods end. 

General information on packaging and packaging waste

The purpose of packaging is to protect and preserve products as well as facilitate their handling and transportation. At the same time, packaging is subject to requirements aimed at reducing environmental impacts. 

Packaging is required, among other things, to: 

• minimize the use of materials  

• be recyclable or reusable  

• ensure safety for users and handlers  

• limit hazardous substances

Packaging is also subject to extended producer responsibility (EPR), meaning that companies are responsible for the management and costs of packaging waste. 

Read more on the website of Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes). 

How can Chementors help?

The new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation introduces several practical changes for companies, particularly regarding documentation, compliance and packaging solutions. 

Chementors supports companies with: 

• interpretation and application of requirements  

• development of documentation and compliance processes  

• assessment of chemical and material-related requirements  

• preparing for upcoming changes well in advance

Contact us to ensure that your packaging complies with the new requirements in time.