Packaging recyclability in the EU is about to change. New grading systems will be put into place along with new regulations and restrictions. By 2030 all packaging in the European Union must be designed for recycling.
When single use plastic started to raise concerns the EU responded. In 2022 the European Commission proposed the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, (PPWR for short.) A sweeping regulation that replaced the PPWD from 1994. This new regulation is aimed at preventing and reducing packaging waste, improving packaging recyclability and driving circular materials in packaging.
In 2025 the PPWR goes into effect, and single use plastic packaging starts to see restrictions. By 2040 most plastic packaging in the EU must meet increased recycled content targets.
Paperboard is the future of recyclability. Because of its unique fiber blends paperboard can be recycled up to 10 times, sometimes more. It is often sustainably sourced and made with wood as well as other recycled materials.
Right now 87% of paperboard is recycled in Europe while only 42% of plastic is recycled. By 2035 all packaging in the EU must be recycled at scale. The EU is striving for a more sustainable future, learn more at Graphic Packaging International.
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