The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is a regulation of the European Union that aims to reduce packaging waste, improve sustainability, and reduce the environmental impact of packaging. It is hoped that this will promote a circular economy, resource efficiency, and encourage the development of environmentally friendly packaging technologies and materials.

The new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation introduces new tasks for the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). The first task is to support the European Commission by preparing a study to identify chemicals of concern in packaging and related components and to evaluate how these chemicals affect their safety, reuse and recycling. ECHA will provide its input to the Commission by the end of September 2026.

Based on ECHA’s report, the European Commission will then consider appropriate follow-up measures, including possible restrictions on the use of substances in packaging materials that pose health or environmental risks. These restrictions will follow the existing REACH restriction process.

• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), Helsinki, Finland
• Directorate-General for Environment, New rules enter into force for a more sustainable and competitive packaging economy, EC Press Release 11 February 2025. (accessed February 11, 2025)