The European Union has set a new course for the future of packaging sector: the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which came into force on February 11, 2025. This new regulatory framework replaces the previous directive and is expected to have a significant impact across the entire packaging supply chain, with clear goals: reducing waste and increasing the recyclability of materials.

For Termoplastica Sghedoni, the PPWR represents a turning point that confirms the importance and correctness of the strategic choices implemented over time.

What’s Changing in Practice?

The regulation introduces strict criteria for the design and composition of packaging. Specifically, Article 6 states that all packaging placed on the market must be designed for large-scale recyclability, according to EU-wide criteria. It is no longer enough for a material to be technically recyclable: it must be processable by existing facilities in EU countries, with practical evidence of its actual circularity.

Mandatory Recycled Content

Another major innovation is the mandatory minimum percentages of recycled content in plastic packaging. According to the PPWR, by 2030 all packaging must contain increasing amounts of recycled plastic, with differentiated targets based on their application. For non-food contact plastic packaging, for example, the initial threshold will be 35% by 2030, increasing to a challenging 65% by 2040. These targets will drive the industry to invest in efficient recycling systems and in the use of high-quality recycled materials, compatible with the technical and functional demands of modern packaging.

Transparency, Labelling and Traceability

Transparency is another cornerstone of the PPWR. All packaging will have to feature harmonized, clear, and digitally traceable labelling that clearly indicates its composition and disposal method. This will encourage more effective separate waste collection and reduce contamination of recyclable materials.

For producers, this means investing in environmental communication, ensuring that the information provided is consistent, up-to-date, and compliant with EU standards.

What are the Implications for Producers?

Companies will need to rethink materials and processes. Design for recycling becomes a mandatory requirement. Plastic films will increasingly need to move toward monomaterials, which are easier to separate and process, gradually replacing non-separable multilayer solutions.

For Termoplastica Sghedoni, already committed to using recycled materials, the PPWR is not an obstacle but an opportunity: to highlight innovation, collaborate with clients to develop more sustainable packaging, and lead the shift towards a truly circular economy.

Conclusion

The PPWR marks a deep and necessary change. Plastic packaging producers are being called to evolve—not just to comply, but to lead the ecological transition. The regulation doesn’t ban plastic use, but demands better use: cleaner, simpler to manage, easier to reintegrate into the production cycle.

Change is already happening. And those who embrace it first will lead the future.

PPWR Regulation FAQ

What is the PPWR regulation and when does it take effect?

The PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) is an European regulation that came into force on February 11, 2025, aiming to regulate the packaging sector by promoting sustainability, recyclability, and improved waste management, in line with the objectives of the European Parliament.

What are the main goals of the PPWR regulation?

The PPWR aims to reduce packaging waste, increase material recyclability, and mandate the use of recycled content. It also introduces mandatory digital labelling for greater transparency and traceability, thus supporting more efficient and responsible packaging management.

What changes for producers with the PPWR regulation?

Producers must redesign packaging, favoring monomaterial and easily separable materials. They must also ensure compliance with the minimum recycled content quotas set to take effect starting in January 2030.

What environmental benefits are expected form the PPWR?

According to studies by the European Commission, implementing the PPWR could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20% related to the packaging production cycle, significantly contributing to the EU’s climate goals and promoting a more sustainable and circular resource management.