PPWR refers to new rules to reduce and prevent the amount of packaging waste in the EU, and must ensure that all packaging on the European market is recyclable or reusable.
– We stand behind PPWR and the overall goals that the legislation aims for. Much needs to be done to reduce the amount of packaging and get more sustainable, circular packaging throughout the EU. Our view is that they want to ensure actual material recycling, where recycled raw material must be of such good quality that it can replace new raw material, which is very positive. It is also very good that there is harmonization between the member states, it makes things easier for the producers and creates better conditions for working together for further development. However, there are some ambiguities, not least regarding different definitions, which are supposed to be resolved in delegated acts, says Henrik Nilsson, head of Business Development and Community Contacts at NPA.
Some points from the legislation
- Applies to all packaging, regardless of the type of material.
- Packaging waste must be reduced by 5 percent by 2030, 10 percent by 2035 and 15 percent by 2040.
- The amount of plastic packaging must be reduced by 20 percent by 2040. By the year 2030, all plastic packaging material must be recycled to 55 percent.
- Packaging should be considered recyclable only when it is designed for recycling, and can be collected, sorted and recycled on a larger scale.
- Requirements for recycled material in new packaging.
- Less complex packaging, for example through better separation of paper and plastic
- Clear labeling of packaging to facilitate source sorting.
Following that Parliament has now decided on a preliminary document, it must be legally reviewed and translated into the languages of all Member States. In the next step, the new parliament, which is elected in the EU elections on 9 June, must also determine it. Before it can enter into force, it must also be determined by the EU Council.