Navigating the PPWR: A 2026 Update for the Flexible Packaging Sector
The framework of the PPWR is no longer a distant prospect—as of April 2026, it is the operational reality for manufacturers across the European market.
We aren’t here to claim we’ve “solved” sustainability: we are committed to being your partner of choice that navigates this complex transition with you. Here is what you need to know to stay ahead.
The Immediate Horizon: PFAS and Heavy Metals
The first major milestone is fast approaching. From 12 August, 2026, new limits on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in packaging take effect. The European Commission’s recent guidance confirms there is no transitional period for existing stock; products placed on the market after this date must comply with the new thresholds.
While heavy metal limits remain consistent with previous directives, the scrutiny on “Substances of Concern” is intensifying. We have actively engaged with our supply chain to ensure our materials meet these evolving standards. For our customers, transparency is key: we provide dedicated PFAS Statements and updated Declarations of Compliance to support your regulatory filings.
The Road to 2030: Recyclability Performance Grades
By adapting today for tomorrow, we ensure that the shift toward a circular economy is a steady transition rather than a last-minute hurdle. While the industry is currently in a “bridge period” as the European Commission is expected to adopt official Design for Recycling (DfR) criteria and performance grades by January 2028, we aren’t waiting for the fine print to take action.
By 2030, all packaging must achieve a recyclability grade of A, B, or C (representing at least 70% recyclability by weight). To help our customers prepare:
- We assess our current portfolio against established industry benchmarks like CEFLEX (for polyolefins) and 4evergreen (for paper-based structures).
- We offer a range of solutions already Designed for Recycling, allowing you to test and implement high-performance mono-materials well before the 2030 deadline.
While the industry has long relied on voluntary guidelines, a definitive shift occurred on April 15, 2026 with the publication of the new CEN standards (EN 18120 series). These standards, including EN 18120-7 (flexible) and EN 18120-6 (rigid), will form the technical backbone of the law in 2028.
We can support you today. We have already secured and analysed these standards for both flexible and rigid PE and PP structures, allowing us to provide the technical guidance you need right now—well before these requirements are codified into law.
Minimum Recycled Content: The 2030 Mandate
For plastic packaging, the 2030 targets are clear. Contact-sensitive applications (such as food, pharma, and infant care) will require 10% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. Other plastic formats face a steeper climb to 35%.
The specific methodology for how this recycled content will be calculated and verified is still being fine-tuned by the European Commission. We are monitoring these developments closely and will provide more details on the final counting method as soon as they are released.
Minimisation vs. Functionality
A core pillar of the PPWR (Article 10) is packaging minimisation. By 2030, weight and volume must be reduced to the minimum necessary for safety and hygiene. This includes a strict 50% maximum “empty space ratio” for grouped, transport, and e-commerce packaging.
Flexible packaging has a natural advantage here. By its very nature, it is material-efficient, often using significantly less mass than rigid alternatives to protect the same volume of product. We continue to advocate for the role of flexible materials as a primary tool for achieving the EU’s minimisation goals without compromising product shelf-life.
What’s Next for Manufacturers?
The responsibility for compliance ultimately rests with the brand owner or filler—the “economic operator” placing the product on the market. However, you do not have to navigate this alone.
Our role is to provide you with the technical documentation that forms the backbone of your compliance strategy. You can learn more about our long-term commitment to these transitions in our sustainability strategy.
Ready to assess your portfolio?
Contact us today to discuss how our solutions Designed for Recycling can fit into your 2030 roadmap!
This article reflects the regulatory position as of April 2026. For more background on the origins of this regulation, revisit our 2024 PPWR introduction.
For the latest guidance documents, visit the official EU Commission PPWR portal.
