New EU Packaging Rules (PPWR)

The European Union has introduced Regulation (EU) 2025/40, known as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Replacing Directive 94/62/EC, the new regulation establishes a single, directly applicable framework across all 27 EU Member States.

Stricker is actively preparing for full compliance with the upcoming EU requirements, ensuring that our operations and supply chains are aligned with the applicable provisions within the established deadlines.

We want to reassure our customers that we are taking the necessary steps to ensure compliance throughout every stage of the implementation roadmap.

Our goal is to ensure that every product you receive meets all applicable regulatory requirements, giving you greater confidence that your products are compliant and ready for the market, without unnecessary disruption to your business.

Navigating the PPWR: Objectives, Timeline and Impact

Core objectives:

Replaces fragmented national rules with a harmonised EU-wide framework and introduces unified sorting labels;
Restricts hazardous substances such as PFAS in food-contact packaging and strengthens Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements;
Introduces clear, harmonised packaging and waste-sorting labels;
Minimises overall packaging use and limits empty space at the source;
Requires packaging to be recyclable or reusable, while promoting refill and reuse systems;
Sets mandatory minimum recycled-plastic content targets for 2030 and 2040.

Implementation roadmap:

February 2025 – The Regulation formally enters into force across the EU;
August 2026 – Restrictions on heavy metals and PFAS in food-contact packaging apply; packaging traceability and Declarations of Conformity become mandatory;
August 2028 – Harmonised material and sorting labels take effect, replacing national systems;
January 2030 – Empty space is capped at a maximum of 50%; minimum Grade A, B or C recyclability requirements, recycled-plastic content targets and reuse targets apply;
January 2035 – Theoretical recyclability is no longer sufficient; new methodologies assess effective recycling at scale;
January 2038 – Only Grade A or B packaging is permitted on the EU market;
January 2040 – Higher recycled-content and reuse requirements take effect.

Key Takeaways for Customers

The Regulation applies directly across all Member States, without the need for national transposition;
Products and packaging placed on the market before the relevant enforcement dates do not need to be recalled or modified, and existing inventory can continue to be sold.

By preparing today for the requirements of tomorrow, we are helping to build a more responsible and sustainable future.
Building the Future is in our Nature!

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