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EU Packaging Directive

The update of the EU Packaging Directive 94/62/EC includes measures for the fundamental avoidance of packaging waste and for the promotion of reuse and recycling as well as alternative utilisation of packaging waste in order to avoid the disposal of packaging waste in the sense of the transition to a circular economy. To this end, the EU member states are obliged to take measures to increase the proportion of reusable packaging and must fulfil certain recycling targets.

By 2024

Introduction of systems that ensure producer responsibility for the return and collection of used packaging and packaging waste.

By the end of 2025

Recycling of at least 65% (by weight) of packaging waste.

By the end of 2030

Recycling of at least 70% (by weight) of packaging waste.

By 2030

Gradual reduction in packaging by 5%.

By 2035

Gradual reduction in packaging by 10%.

By 2040

Gradual reduction in packaging by 15%.

Checklist:

Obligation of EU member states to ensure less plastic packaging waste.

In future, the proportion of empty space in secondary packaging, transport packaging and packaging for e-commerce may only amount to 50%.

Manufacturers and importers must ensure lighter packaging with less volume.

Certain single-use plastic packaging will be banned from 1 January 2030. This applies, for example, to packaging for unprocessed fresh fruit and vegetables, single portions (e.g. spices, cream, sugar), single-use plastic packaging for toiletries in hotels and very lightweight plastic carrier bags.

Ban on the use of perpetual chemicals (PFAS) in packaging that comes into contact with food (if certain limits are exceeded).

Specific targets for the reuse of packaging for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, transport and sales packaging and secondary packaging have been set for 2030.

Retailers of drinks and takeaway food must allow consumers to use their own containers. They are also required to offer 10% of their products in reusable packaging by 2030.

All packaging (with the exception of light wood, cork, textiles, rubber, ceramics, porcelain and wax) must fulfil strict requirements for recyclability.

By 2029, 90% of all single-use plastic and metal drinks containers must be collected separately (probably with the help of a deposit system).

Labelling obligations by means of labels or QR codes on material composition and reusability

Obligation to provide information about refilling or reuse options

Ban on deceptive packaging

EU Packaging Directive

EU Packaging Directive

Objectives:

Checklist:

Further information: