Stricter Packaging Regulations 2025
Packaging. We use it daily in all shapes and sizes. It’s convenient and essential, but it also represents a major source of waste. The new PPWR regulations aim to change this. This European legislation is designed to reduce packaging waste and minimize its impact on the environment. But what does this mean for you as a business owner? We’re happy to explain.
The PPWR regulation (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) will bring several concrete changes for you as a business owner starting in 2025. The focus is on sustainability, waste reduction, and promoting a circular economy. This means you will need to adapt your packaging materials to meet stricter requirements and new standards. Below are the key changes you can expect in 2025.
More efficient design and less packaging material
From 2025, stricter requirements will be applied to the design of packaging. The goal is to reduce unnecessary packaging and ensure that the packaging you use is optimally suited to the product. This means that packaging must be smaller, lighter, and simpler. By improving your packaging designs, you can reduce the amount of materials used, which can help you save costs in the long run. This more efficient approach helps you comply with new environmental regulations and contributes to a more sustainable business model.
Reusable and recyclable packaging as the new standard
The new regulations require businesses to use more reusable and recyclable packaging. For specific product categories, such as beverage bottles and takeaway containers, it will be mandatory from 2025 to offer reusable packaging options. This means that a system for reusing these products must be established, such as return programs for packaging or offering refillable packaging. In addition, from 2025, more attention will be given to the use of recycled materials. This means you’ll need to critically assess the sustainability of your current packaging materials and, where possible, switch to alternatives that better align with the circular economy. The use of complex or mixed materials, which are difficult to recycle, should therefore be avoided.
Impact of the new PPWR regulations
The introduction of the updated PPWR regulations could have a significant impact on your business operations. It means you’ll need to reassess your packaging strategies and possibly invest in new technologies and processes to meet the requirements. While these changes may initially incur extra costs, they can help you save money in the long run. Moreover, it offers the opportunity to differentiate your brand by making sustainability a key part of your business strategy.
We understand that this new regulation can greatly impact your business, and we are here to support you during the transition to these new standards. Are you curious about how you can adapt your business operations to this? TICA is happy to think along with you! We would love to hear from you if you’re interested in a workshop on this topic.