2025 marks a turning point in how packaging is designed, labelled, and managed across Europe and the UK. With the introduction of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) 2025/40, and the UK's alignment through its Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, businesses must now rethink packaging from the ground up.

This article breaks down the key changes, timelines, and what brands need to do to stay compliant and competitive.

EU Regulation (2025/40): Circularity at the Core

The PPWR 2025/40, officially published on January 22, 2025, replaces the 1994 Packaging Directive and came into force on February 11, 2025. Its goal? To ensure all packaging is reusable or recyclable by 2030, while reducing waste and environmental harm.

Key Requirements

1. Recyclability Grades & Restrictions

• Packaging must meet recyclability performance grades:
• Grade A: ≥95% recyclable
• Grade B: ≥80%
• Grade C: ≥70%
• From 2030, packaging below 70% recyclability will be banned.
• By 2038, only Grade B or higher will be allowed.kor-group

2. Minimum Recycled Content

• Plastic packaging must include post-consumer recycled content:
• 30% for PET bottles by 2030, rising to 65% by 2040
• 10–35% for other plastics depending on use-casekor-group

3. Packaging Minimization

• Packaging must avoid excess materials like double walls or false bottoms.
• Void space in transport packaging must not exceed 50%.kor-group

4. Reuse Targets

• Mandatory reuse rates by 2030:
• 10% for beverage packaging
• 40% for transport and e-commerce packaging
• 10% for outer packaging
• These targets increase significantly by 2040.kor-group

5. PFAS & Hazardous Substance Limits

• PFAS in food-contact packaging banned from August 2026.
• Strict thresholds apply for lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium.kor-group

6. Labelling & Producer Responsibility

• Harmonized labels must show material composition and recycled content.
• Producers must register and report packaging data annually.
• QR codes may be required for declarations of conformity.repak

UK Alignment: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

While the UK is no longer bound by EU law, its EPR framework closely mirrors the PPWR in spirit and ambition.

Similarities & Differences

• UK EPR focuses on producer fees and modulation to incentivize eco-friendly packaging.
• EU PPWR enforces binding targets and format restrictions.
• Both aim to reduce packaging waste and improve recyclability.ecogenesys

 UK-Specific Updates

• New recycling obligations and waste disposal fees introduced in 2025.
• UK exporters to the EU must comply with PPWR standards, including banned formats and PFAS limits.ecogenesys

Timeline to Watch

What Should Brands Do Now?

1. Audit Packaging Materials
Check recyclability grades, PFAS content, and design features.

2. Update Labelling
Ensure labels reflect material composition and recycled content.

3. Register & Report
Comply with producer registration and annual reporting requirements.

4. Innovate for Reuse & Recyclability
Design packaging that meets future reuse and recyclability thresholds.

5. Collaborate with Compliance Experts
Work with consultants to navigate EU and UK requirements seamlessly.

Bottom line The PPWR isn’t just a regulation-it’s a roadmap to a circular packaging economy. Brands that act early will not only avoid penalties but also lead the way in sustainable innovation.

Get in touch with us to make your packaging compliant to the PPWR regulation.