The Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) will hold a State of Industry webinar on 17 September to brief the packaging sector on the European Union’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which came into force on 11 February 2025.
The PPWR replaces the previous Packaging Directive (Directive 94/62/EC) and introduces wide-ranging changes aimed at reducing environmental impacts of packaging used across the EU. It sets a target to reduce packaging waste by 15 per cent per person by 2040, compared to 2018 levels. The regulation seeks to achieve this through measures such as cutting down on unnecessary and single-use packaging, and overpackaged items.
Other key provisions include requirements for all packaging to be fully recyclable by 2030, with clear rules and criteria to enhance recyclability of different materials. It also promotes reuse and refill systems, mandating companies to offer a portion of products such as takeaway food and drink in reusable or refillable packaging formats. Standardisation of packaging formats and improved labelling of reusable options are also part of the regulation, intended to support more informed consumer choices.
The regulation introduces eco-modulated Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees based on recyclability. These rules and targets apply to all packaged goods sold in the EU. According to AIP, companies that export to Europe will need to understand the regulation and its implications.
The webinar will provide an overview of the PPWR framework and its key provisions, including timelines, compliance milestones, and actions required from brands, suppliers and manufacturers. Attendees will also receive guidance on reporting requirements and a basic implementation toolkit.
The speakers are Lina Wimmer, senior consultant at Circular Analytics, and Charlotte Neumair, team lead circularity at Circular Analytics.
Participation in the webinar contributes points towards the Certified Packaging Professional designation. The event is open to the wider industry. To register, click here.
