EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation – New Requirements from 12 August 2026
EU Regulation 2025/40 sets mandatory packaging rules on recyclability, recycled content, PFAS limits, labelling, and EPR, effective 12 Aug 2026.
The EU has adopted Regulation (EU) 2025/40, establishing new mandatory requirements for packaging placed on the EU market. This replaces the former Packaging Waste Directive and sets binding rules on recyclability, recycled content, hazardous substances (including PFAS), labelling, and extended producer responsibility (EPR).
This Regulation will take effect on 11 February 2025 and will become applicable starting 12 August 2026. It applies to all packaging and packaging waste placed on the EU market, regardless of material type.
Key requirements
Area | Requirement |
|---|---|
Sustainable Design | Packaging must minimise environmental impact across its life cycle, including reduced material use and avoidance of hazardous substances. |
Recyclability & Reuse | Packaging must be recyclable or reusable under economically viable conditions; performance benchmarks set. |
Minimum Recycled Content | Plastic packaging must meet binding minimum recycled content targets. |
Harmonised Labelling | EU-wide labels indicating packaging composition to guide consumers in sorting and recycling. |
Waste Prevention | Member States must implement measures to reduce packaging waste with targets for 2030, 2035, and 2040. |
Extended Producer Responsibility | Manufacturers, importers, and distributors are responsible for compliance, reporting, and maintaining technical documentation. |
Businesses should review all packaging to ensure it meets recyclability and recycled content requirements, phase out substances of concern such as PFAS, update technical documentation and declarations of conformity, implement harmonised EU labelling systems, adjust procurement, design, and supply chain processes to comply ahead of the 12 August 2026 deadline, and monitor EU guidance and delegated acts for detailed thresholds and phased implementation rules.
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