New Grading Systems and Regulations for Packaging in the EU
Packaging and packaging materials are about to change. By 2030, in the European Union all packaging must be designed for recycling, and tighter regulations and rules will be implemented in the near future. In the 2010s single use plastic started to raise concerns and in response the European Commission proposed the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, (PPWR for short.) This was proposed in 2022, which replaced the PPWD from 1994.
The PPWR is aimed at preventing and reducing as much waste as possible, and it will help with improving packaging recyclability and recycling. It will also help drive circular materials in packaging, which will increase recycling sustainability. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation goes into effect in 2025.
By the year 2030 the EU will be implementing a new grading system for materials and packaging. Using the DfR (Design for Recycling) framework, recyclability performance will be graded. Grade A will be 95% recyclable, grade B will be 80% recyclable, grade C will be 70% recyclable, and anything below 70% will be non-recyclable. Items below 70% will not be allowed to be placed on the market starting 2030. Assessment of recyclability per unit, in terms of weight. DfR rules to be further defined through delegated acts by the year 2028.
Paperboard is the natural fit for a circular future. Because of the unique fibers in paperboard, it can be recycled up to 10 times, sometimes more. Often sourced sustainability and made from high quality wood and recycled materials, paperboard is a popular choice for many brands and companies worldwide. The Paperboard life cycle is simple, raw materials are brought to the paperboard mills where it is processed and moved to innovative packaging. Then the paperboard is delivered to brands, retailers and consumers, once done with the packaging consumers will recycle it and the process starts over again.
Graphic Packaging International is a corporation founded in 1978 based in Atlanta Georgia, United States. Operating out of many states, Graphic Packaging International designs and manufactures solutions for brands and commercial products. They also own and operate paperboard mills where they proudly make and supply paperboard. Providing paperboard to those who need it.
In 2028 development of secondary legislation starts. Standardized, mandatory labels for waste sorting on all waste receptacles and consumer packaging begins. This means labels for recycling bins, trash cans and compost bins must each follow a consistent design and color coding pattern. This will be a legal requirement starting 2028.
By 2035 all packaging in the EU must be recycled at scale. Single use plastic will see restrictions, items such as multipack drinks and sodas, fresh fruit containers, paper cups, lids, paper bowls and plates will all see restrictions in the coming years. Most plastic packaging and parts in the EU must meet initial minimum content targets.
Right now 87% of paperboard is recycled in Europe while only 42% of plastic is recycled. Paperboard consistently outperforms plastic. By the year 2038 all packaging in the EU must meet stricter criteria for recyclability. The EU is making changes to help the future of packaging and our planet. Learn more about this at Graphic Packaging International.