Packaging advice: from PPWR to a smarter process

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is the European regulation that aims to make packaging more sustainable and more recyclable. Unlike a directive, a regulation applies directly in all EU member states — so no separate national law is needed. Here's what's going on, in plain language.

Which requirements apply when

The PPWR entered into force on 11 February 2025 and has applied in large part since 12 August 2026. Other obligations are phased in. Which requirement matters, and when, depends on your role, the packaging, the material and the trade flow.

What this means for board, film and void fill

For corrugated board, dimensions, strength, coatings and other components must be assessed together. For films, gauge, pre-stretch, load containment and total grams per secured pallet matter. For void fill, the starting point is the defined protection function and the smallest repeatable dose that performs it. A material switch is only useful when protection, processing and the relevant recycling route remain sound.

Common misconceptions

• "The PPWR bans every plastic package." Not true — it addresses recyclability, recycled content and reduction among other matters; it is not a general plastics ban.
• "This is only a 2030 issue." No. The PPWR already applies in large part, while other obligations follow in phases.
• "Company size decides everything." No. Some provisions contain specific thresholds or exemptions, but the relevant role, packaging and transaction must be checked first.

This knowledge base is part of IVX's PPWR consultancy service. Use it to explore your own packaging question or to prepare for a quickscan or consultancy project.

• Roles — distributor, importer, manufacturer and producer.
• Corrugated board — dimensions, strength and substantiation.
• Tape and stretch film — performance, dosage and evidence.
• Empty space and void fill — minimisation with product protection.
• Supplier information — build a usable item file.
• Recyclability — components, separation and cautious claims.
• Timeline — phased requirements and actions.

No panic, just a plan. In a PPWR quickscan (around 30 minutes, on-site or online) we look together at your current packaging: what the PPWR affects now, what can wait, and where the savings are. You get a clear overview of your action points and concrete next steps — technical and practical, not a thick legal report. For complex compliance questions I'll refer you on.

Packaging advice doesn't stop at a single box. If you want, I look at your entire packaging process: from purchasing and material choice to machines, suppliers and waste. Where are you losing money to air, damage, over-heavy material or fragmented suppliers? By steering it as a whole — one hand on materials, machines and suppliers — you often cut both cost and environmental impact. I run the numbers with you and spell out concretely what it delivers.

Handy tools along the way: the Box Calculator to design out excess material and air, the material guide for material choices, and the stretch film & tapes overview for the small materials that are often big in consumption.