The packaging world is changing fast. As sustainability demands grow and regulations tighten, businesses across industries are being called to rethink the way they design, produce, and manage their packaging waste. One of the most significant shifts currently underway in Europe is the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
If you're unsure what it means for your business or how to navigate the new rules, APC Packaging is here to help. Let’s break it down.
PPWR stands for Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation — a sweeping piece of legislation proposed by the European Commission that will replace the existing Packaging Waste Directive. The goal? To tackle the growing environmental impact of packaging and ensure that by 2030, all packaging placed on the EU market is either reusable or recyclable in an economically viable way.
The regulation covers everything from the design of packaging materials to waste management responsibilities for manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers.
If your business produces, fills, or places packaged products on the EU market — whether you’re based in the EU or export to it — PPWR applies to you. Key aspects of the regulation include:
Mandatory recyclability criteria for all packaging by 2030
Reduction of unnecessary and oversized packaging
Mandatory recycled content targets for plastic packaging
Stricter rules on single-use packaging
Harmonized labeling requirements for sorting and recycling
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes strengthened and expanded
Failing to meet these regulations could mean restricted market access, financial penalties, or a damaged brand reputation.
This is where APC Packaging comes in. Navigating regulatory frameworks like PPWR can be complex, but we make it simple, guiding your business every step of the way.
Here’s how we can support you:
✅ Packaging Compliance Audits We’ll assess your current packaging portfolio against PPWR requirements, identifying areas of non-compliance and opportunities for improvement.
✅ Packaging Redesign & Optimization Our team helps you redesign packaging to meet recyclability, material reduction, and labeling criteria without sacrificing performance or aesthetics.
✅ Material & Supply Chain Sourcing We connect you with certified, sustainable, and recyclable packaging materials and suppliers that meet PPWR mandates.
✅ Documentation & Reporting Support We’ll help you stay on top of EPR scheme obligations, recycling targets, and due diligence documentation to avoid penalties.
✅ Staff Training & Regulatory Updates APC keeps your team informed with the latest PPWR developments and provides training to maintain ongoing compliance.
✅ Full-Service Sustainability Strategy From setting recycled content targets to implementing reuse models, we can help develop a long-term packaging sustainability roadmap aligned with PPWR and other global regulations.
PPWR isn’t just about compliance it’s about leading in a circular economy and showing your customers you care about the planet. Whether you’re a manufacturer, brand owner, or distributor, APC Packaging is your trusted partner for practical, tailored solutions to meet regulatory demands and sustainability goals.
Contact APC Packaging today to book a compliance audit or learn more about how we can help you navigate PPWR. https://apcpackaging.com/contact/