The European Commission has issued a comprehensive guidance document for Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on Packaging and Packaging Waste (PPWR), providing clarification on key provisions ahead of the regulation's application date of 12 August 2026. The guidance aims to ensure a uniform interpretation of the new packaging rules across EU Member States and assist industry stakeholders in preparing for compliance. The document addresses a wide range of topics, including definitions of packaging, manufacturers, producers and importers, recyclability requirements, recycled content obligations, compostable packaging, packaging minimisation, reuse targets, labelling requirements, deposit return systems (DRS), and restrictions on certain packaging formats. Among the key clarifications, the Commission confirmed that all packaging placed on the EU market must be recyclable, while detailed design-for-recycling requirements will become applicable following future delegated acts. The guidance also explains that food-contact packaging containing PFAS above specified limits cannot be placed on the market from 12 August 2026, although products already placed on the market before that date may continue to circulate. The guidance further provides interpretation on reusable packaging obligations, minimum packaging requirements, harmonized EU labelling, and Member State flexibility concerning compostable packaging and recycling targets. It also clarifies the relationship between the PPWR and the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD), especially regarding packaging bans and reuse targets. The Commission emphasized that this document does not create new legal obligations but serves as an interpretative tool to support effective implementation of the PPWR. Additional implementing and delegated acts are expected over the next two to three years to further define technical requirements under the regulation.
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