PPWR
Big changes are coming to the world of packaging in the near future due to the adoption of the PPWR by the European Union. PPWR, also known as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation will significantly shake up production and distribution of packaging across all industries. The regulation will normally been put to vote by the EU Parliament in Q4 2024.
So what do these new rules actually entail? Let’s unwrap the most important changes and see how Slimbox can help you stay ahead of the game.
To reduce general packaging waste, all packages have to become easier to recycle and reusable where possible. The keyword here is ‘circularity’. Starting from 2030, packaging has to be redesigned for material recycling. By 2040, if a package’s recyclability grade is below 70%, it’s a no-go for the market. Packaging must be designed so it can be properly sorted into specific waste streams without harming the recyclability of other materials. Specifically for paper and cardboard-based packaging, 75% will have to be recyclable by 2030, 85% by 2040.
The new regulation sets ambitious re-use targets for packaging, tailored to different types. For example, businesses using transport packaging or sales packaging for transport (think pallets, foldable plastic boxes, crates, etc) must ensure that at least 40% of their packaging is reusable. This target will jump to 70% by 2040. Additionally, any transport packaging used between different businesses or locations within the EU must be fully reusable. However, cardboard packaging is fully excluded from these re-use targets, making another strong case to switch to a cardboard-based solution.
Single use plastics in packaging?
Another victim of the regulation is plastic contents in packaging. Future plastic packaging must include a specific percentage of recycled materials, varying by type. (You do know that with Slimbox, you can craft custom packaging that snugly fits your products, eliminating the need for plastic fillers).
Speaking of fillers, let’s talk about empty space. We’ve all experienced the frustration of receiving a tiny item in a giant box in a box 3 times the size (well, at Slimbox we don't actually😉 ). The EU wants to put a lid on this by ensuring packaging size is minimized to what’s actually necessary.. Starting from 2030 packaging will have to be designed so that “its weight and volume is reduced to the minimum necessary for ensuring its functionality”.
Grouped, transport, and e-commerce packaging must limit empty space to 50%, and stuffing the box with paper or bubble wrap doesn’t count—it’s still considered ‘empty space.’ This is where the Slimbox really shines. Our innovative solution creates any box model in any size, drastically reducing empty space in every package.
Packaging labeling
The PPWR will introduce a harmonized way of labeling. This label will have to detail the material components of the package, to facilitate easy sorting and recycling. Reusable packages will have to indicate their reusability to the consumer.
This legislation will also ban single-use packaging starting from 2030. This is particularly applicable to plastic packaging. Switching to eco-friendly materials like corrugated cardboard, such as corrugated cardboard, is the way to go.
It’s a lot to digest, but don’t worry! At Slimbox, we're the partner to guide you through the regulations and make sure you're compliant now and in the future. A bright and sustainable future
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