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From 12 August, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) applies across the EU.
The PPWR establishes a harmonised framework for packaging and packaging waste in the Single Market. The new rules mark a major step towards reducing packaging waste and lowering compliance costs for the packaging industry.
They will also make the waste value chain more sustainable, helping to reduce the Union’s dependence on imports of virgin materials, strengthening the market for secondary raw materials, and supporting the EU’s transition to a competitive circular economy and climate neutrality by 2050.
By replacing fragmented national requirements with a common set of EU rules that cover the entire packaging life cycle, the PPWR brings greater legal certainty and efficiency gains for businesses operating across borders, while creating stronger conditions for investment, innovation and growth in circular packaging solutions.
A key measure entering into application today is a restriction on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food-contact packaging. From now on, food-contact packaging containing PFAS above strict limits can no longer be placed on the EU market.
The measure is designed to reduce exposure to so-called ‘forever chemicals’ – a group of highly persistent substances that can accumulate in the environment and in the human body.
PFAS have been commonly used in food packaging such as takeaway containers, fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, bakery paper and pizza boxes, to repel water or grease. By limiting the use of PFAS in food-contact packaging, the new rules will help protect human health while reducing the release of these harmful substances into the environment.
August 11, 2026/ European Commission/ European Union.
https://environment.ec.europa.eu
