Unpacking the New EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR): A Summary of Key Requirements
Authors 
Key Requirements of the PPWR – Whitepaper Overview:
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 (the PPWR) introduces comprehensive packaging requirements aimed at enhancing sustainability and circular economy goals, with a focus on reducing waste across Member States.
This whitepaper breaks down the key compliance measures for businesses, providing a clear roadmap for adapting to the new regulation.
It Covers:
- Restrictions on the use of substances of concern in packaging, including limits on PFAS in food-contact packaging;
- A requirement for all packaging placed on the market to be recyclable;
- Minimum recycled content requirements for plastic packaging;
- Measures to ensure packaging minimization;
- Harmonized packaging labeling requirements (to be expanded upon by future implementing acts);
- The imposition of re-use targets on economic operators; and
- Extended producer responsibility provisions.
*This whitepaper was originally published on 19th February, 2025. Further regulatory developments may have occurred after publication. To keep up-to-date with the latest compliance news, sign up to our newsletter.
Authors
Rúan Doherty
Regulatory Compliance Specialist
Supporting global regulatory compliance with expertise in packaging, single-use plastics, and ESG reporting.
Conor O’Donoghue
Regulatory Compliance Specialist
Guiding global compliance with expertise in packaging, single-use plastics, RoHS, and anti-bribery and corruption.
