Unless action is taken, packaging waste in the EU is projected to grow by 19% by 2030, and plastic packaging waste by as much as 46%. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will help reduce the EU's dependence on imports of virgin materials, strengthen the market for secondary raw materials, and support the EU’s transition to a competitive circular economy and climate neutrality by 2050.  

A key measure rolled out on 12 August restricts PFAS in food-contact packaging to strict limits. No such packaging which exceeds the limits can be placed on the EU market.  

From 2028, an EU-wide harmonised labelling system for packaging will facilitate waste sorting, thereby increasing efficiency in the recycling and composting waste streams.

From 2030, measures will come into effect to reduce the generation of packaging waste, such as reuse targets and restrictions on certain single-use plastic packaging. Recycled plastic waste will have to be incorporated into new plastic packaging and all packaging will have to be recyclable.

By promoting a more circular economy, the PPWR will help keep valuable materials in use for longer and increase the recovery and use of secondary raw materials within the EU. This will reduce pressures linked to resource extraction and waste generation, while strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of European industry through a more secure and sustainable supply of materials.

In March 2026, the Commission published guidance to support the implementation of the PPWR, including practical information for businesses, national authorities and other stakeholders on the application of the new PFAS restrictions.