Since 12 August 2026, the first binding requirements of the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) have come into effect. This marks the beginning of an important transformation for businesses across Europe: packaging must now meet stricter requirements regarding substances, documentation, and recyclability. Find out what this means for your company and how you can future-proof your packaging solutions today.
The PPWR Is in Force – Is Your Company Prepared?
What Already Applies as of 12 August 2026
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) replaces the previous EU Packaging Directive and, for the first time, establishes harmonized rules across all EU Member States. Three areas are particularly relevant for businesses today:
Stricter Limits on Packaging Substances
New PFAS limits now apply to food packaging. These so-called “forever chemicals” can accumulate in both the environment and living organisms. Companies must ensure that their packaging complies with these new requirements.
Expanded Documentation Requirements
Packaging must now be documented in greater detail, including technical documentation that demonstrates compliance with the regulation. For many businesses, this represents the most significant practical change.
New Responsibilities Within the Supply Chain
Different obligations apply depending on whether a company manufactures packaging, imports it, or places it on the market under its own brand. Retailers and private-label businesses are particularly affected by these new responsibilities.
PPWR and VerpackDG: Two Regulations, One Responsibility
Alongside the European PPWR, Germany’s new Packaging Law Implementation Act (VerpackDG) has entered into force. It replaces the previous Packaging Act (VerpackG) and governs the practical implementation of the EU requirements at the national level. Established processes such as registration with the Central Packaging Register (LUCID) and participation in collection and recycling schemes remain in place for the time being. However, terminology, responsibilities, and documentation requirements are changing. Particularly relevant for: Companies that import packaging or place products on the market under their own or private label should carefully review their role within the supply chain now.
What Businesses Can Expect in the Coming Years
The implementation milestone of 12 August 2026 is only the beginning. Additional requirements will become mandatory gradually through 2030 and beyond:
- Recyclability as a design principle: Packaging should be developed with recycling in mind from the outset.
- Higher recycled-content requirements: Particularly for plastic packaging.
- Packaging optimization: Oversized packaging, unnecessary empty space, and avoidable material use will face increasing scrutiny.
Why Companies Should Act Now
Although many requirements will only become mandatory over the coming years, companies that take action now can avoid future compliance pressure and implement changes in a structured way rather than being forced to react at short notice.
Key Questions to Ask Today
- Are our packaging solutions future-proof?
- Is there potential to reduce material usage?
- Can our packaging be made more recycling-friendly?
- What requirements will affect us in the coming years?
Compliance Risk: Companies that ignore PPWR requirements risk not only regulatory consequences but also competitive disadvantages compared to businesses that adopt compliant solutions at an early stage.
comepack – Your Partner for PPWR-Compliant Packaging Solutions
Packaging requirements continue to grow more demanding while solutions must remain cost-effective and provide reliable product protection.
comepack Supports You With:
- Customized reusable transport packaging solutions
- Well-designed reusable packaging circulation systems
- Packaging strategies that take both current and future PPWR requirements into account
We design your packaging solution from the outset with upcoming regulatory developments in mind, helping you achieve long-term compliance instead of relying on short-term adjustments.
Take Action Now
With the implementation milestone of 12 August 2026, the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation has reached an important stage. Use the time before the next mandatory requirements take effect to review your packaging strategy and ensure it is ready for the future.
