Roadmap to an Eco-Packaging

The European Union has adopted a new binding and harmonized roadmap on Eco-packaging and packaging waste. The European Regulation on Packaging and Packaging Waste amends Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repeals Directive 94/62/EC. 

For the first time, at the European level, we will have a unified standard with ambitious and realistic objectives, inspired by the new Circular Economy Plan, thus responding to the commitment to strengthen packaging requirements to make them reusable and recyclable, addressing their entire life cycle, from design to waste management. This includes measures to prevent waste generation and reduce overpackaging. The aim is to decrease the use of packaging by 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040.

The European standard sets specific objectives for certain reusable packaging by 2030. It will require 10% of products to be packaged in a reusable format.

Final distributors of beverages and takeaway food in the restaurant sector will be required to offer consumers the option to bring their containers. Since reuse is one of Europe's goals, "single-use" packaging, packaging for packaged and consumed food and beverages in hospitality, or "single-dose" packaging will be most affected by the new measures. Also, starting on January 1, 2030, small-sized packaging, and samples, such as miniature shampoo or cream bottles provided to customers in many hotels and establishments, will be prohibited.

Economic operators using transport packaging, even e-commerce, will ensure that at least 40% of such packaging is reusable within a reuse system. Starting in January 1, 2040, economic agents will strive to use at least 70% of such packaging in a reusable format within a reuse system.

Additionally, operators may place a QR code or other digital data support with information on the destination of each component of the packaging to facilitate consumer sorting. This obligation does not apply to transport packaging or packaging as part of a deposit and return system. Reusable packaging must carry a label informing users that the packaging is reusable, and further information will be provided through a QR code or other digital data support, providing more information on the packaging's reuse, including the availability of a local, national, or community reuse system and information on collection points.