PPWR (Packaging and Packaging-Waste Regulation): 

What the new EU Packaging Regulation means for PACKSYS and our customers. 

New packaging requirements are also changing the specifications for packaging components. PACKSYS is actively preparing for the new operating environment and supports customers with technical information, material data and expertise.

What does this mean for PACKSYS?

Various aspects are already becoming increasingly important during the selection and development of packaging components. These include, amongst others:

• the selection of suitable materials,
• transparent material and product information,
• technical specifications,
• clear documentation of changes and
• traceability.

Collaboration with suppliers and customers also increasingly requires a reliable data foundation. Product specifications, material data, safety information, supplier declarations and test reports form the basis for a transparent assessment.

Design for recycling begins at the development stage

The PPWR requirements make it clear that recyclability should not be considered only at the end of the product life cycle. Even at the development stage, the choice of materials and design can make a significant difference.

Complex assemblies, different materials and combinations of materials can complicate recycling processes. This is why the principle of ‘design for recycling’ is becoming increasingly important. Material combinations are reviewed, designs are simplified as far as possible, and materials are documented in a traceable manner.

For PACKSYS, this means that more sustainable packaging solutions are not achieved simply by choosing a single material. What is crucial is the interplay between the packaging as a whole and its individual components.

What does ‘PPWR-compliant’ mean in relation to a closure or a dosing component?

A closure or a dosing component can be assessed and documented independently with regard to specific PPWR requirements. However, a final assessment of the conformity and recyclability of the overall packaging is only possible if all relevant packaging components are taken into account.

Individual material properties or requirements may also be considered separately for a packaging component. However, a conclusion regarding the recyclability of the overall packaging cannot automatically be drawn from this.

To this end, PACKSYS provides technical information on the respective packaging component – for example, details on material composition, technical specifications, substances contained and, where available, recyclability.

Furthermore, depending on the product and requirements, details such as product and weight specifications, supplier or manufacturer declarations, and inspection and test reports may also be relevant.

To compile this relevant information, the Sales, Purchasing, Development, Quality Management and Data Management departments work closely together. In doing so, information from various sources is collated, verified and made available to our customers in as structured a format as possible.

PACKSYS’s respective role must also be taken into account: in many cases, we act as a distributor and source products from specialist partners. The technical documentation and material information relevant to the assessment are therefore partly held by our suppliers or manufacturing partners. We rely on this information and work closely with our partners to ensure that the available documentation is as complete and up-to-date as possible.

The assessment of the packaging as a whole, taking into account its relevant components and properties, is generally carried out by the manufacturer or distributor responsible for it.

Recent developments regarding the implementation of the PPWR

In March 2026, the European Commission published guidelines on the implementation of the PPWR, as well as a FAQ document. These documents are intended to assist businesses and other stakeholders in the practical application and consistent interpretation of the new requirements.

As the practical implementation of the PPWR continues to evolve, PACKSYS is continuously monitoring regulatory and technical developments and taking these into account in the further development of its own processes and information structures.

Our mission: to share knowledge and support our customers

The PPWR introduces new requirements and, with them, new questions for manufacturers and distributors of packaging. PACKSYS therefore supports its customers with reliable technical information and regulatory expertise.

Our key principles:

• The packaging as a whole and the interaction of its relevant components are crucial for the PPWR assessment.
• Transparent product, material and supplier information is becoming increasingly important.
• Individual packaging components can be assessed and documented in terms of their relevant properties and PPWR requirements.

With technical expertise, meticulous documentation and close collaboration with customers and suppliers, we aim to help ensure that packaging solutions are fit for the demands of the future.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Franziska Wiesbauer

Team Leader Business Development

franziska.wiesbauer@packsys.de

Or get in touch with your direct contact at PACKSYS.