PPWR Compliance: How to Meet the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, COM/2022/677) is the European Union’s new framework for packaging sustainability, replacing the old Packaging Directive. It mandates that all packaging placed on the EU market must be recyclable or reusable by 2030, with clear requirements on labeling, recycled content, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Compliance is mandatory for all businesses using packaging in the EU.
PPWR Compliance via EaseCert:
Who Must Comply with PPWR?
Any business that produces, imports, distributes, or sells products with packaging in the European Union must comply with PPWR. This includes:
- Packaging producers and brand owners
- Importers and online sellers
- Manufacturers in food, cosmetics, electronics, and consumer goods
- Logistics and shipping companies handling packaging
If your business is not established in the EU, you must appoint an EU Authorized Representative to fulfill your PPWR obligations.
PPWR Compliance Requirements
Key requirements under the PPWR include:
- Packaging design optimization to ensure recyclability and reusability
- Incorporation of mandatory recycled content (particularly for plastics, starting in 2025)
- Clear labeling in all relevant EU languages for material identification and disposal
- National registrations under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes
- Preparation of a packaging compliance file and conformity declarations
Reporting and Reusability Targets
Businesses must track and report the volume and type of packaging placed on the EU market. By 2030, all packaging must be recyclable or reusable, with higher reuse targets for transport packaging (e.g. pallets, crates, load carriers) extending to 2040. Recycled content quotas will apply progressively to plastic packaging.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with PPWR can result in serious consequences:
- Fines and legal penalties at national level
- Prohibition from selling products in the EU market
- Increased scrutiny from online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay
- Reputational damage due to sustainability failures
How EaseCert Helps with PPWR Compliance
At EaseCert, we provide a full-service solution to help businesses meet PPWR requirements across the EU:
- Assessment of packaging materials for recyclability and compliance
- Guidance on packaging redesign and incorporation of recycled content
- Registration with national EPR systems
- Preparation of labeling, documentation, and conformity declarations
- EU Authorized Representative service based in Trier, Germany
- Ongoing monitoring to keep packaging aligned with future PPWR targets
Getting Started with PPWR Compliance
To begin, gather the following information:
- Details of your packaging materials and formats
- Estimated yearly quantities placed on the EU market
- Company or representative contact information
- Existing recycling, labeling, or sustainability documentation
Submit these to us, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Need PPWR Compliance?
EaseCert offers a one-time, all-inclusive PPWR Compliance Service for businesses selling in the European Union. This service covers packaging review, EPR registration, labeling, documentation, and EU Authorized Representative services from Germany.
No subscriptions. No annual renewals. Fully compliant.