PPWR: The new EU Packaging Regulation – Making packaging future-proof
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is the EU’s new, comprehensive packaging regulation. It imposes new requirements on almost all businesses that place packaging on the market. The first articles of the regulation must be implemented by 12 August 2026.
As a Klingele customer, you may well be wondering: what does this mean for my packaging and processes?
Klingele’s packaging solutions are already designed to meet future requirements. We actively support our customers, providing clear guidance through all the PPWR regulations as they come into force in stages.
PPWR – Key Topics
As of August 2026: What You Need to Know Now
Obligations for producers to provide evidence: assessing, declaring and documenting compliance
Conformity assessment, declaration of conformity, documentation: Find out what evidence you need to provide and when.
Substances of concern in packaging: What Article 5 of the PPWR will regulate as of 12 August 2026
The PPWR sets limits on certain harmful substances in packaging – from heavy metals to PFAS. We explain what the rules are and where Klingele stands today.
Stakeholders and obligations under the PPWR: producers, manufacturers, distributors, suppliers
Stakeholders and responsibilities: Who bears which responsibilities within the PPWR?
Key answers about PPWR
According to the PPWR (Article 3(1)(1)), packaging is an item – regardless of the material – used by a business to contain, protect, handle, deliver or display goods. For an item to be classified as packaging, all of the following conditions must be met:
- It serves to protect, transport, deliver or present a product.
- It is not itself an integral part of the product.
- It is either used, consumed or disposed of together with the product – or it fulfils a packaging function as an additional element.
By contrast, products made of corrugated cardboard, such as toys, furniture, building materials or removal boxes,are not considered packaging . In the case of displays, their classification has not yet been conclusively clarified on a case-by-case basis.
These terms describe the types of packaging within a complete packaging unit – a concept central to extended producer responsibility. A practical example from the Klingele context:
- Primary packaging: e.g. a plastic bag that is in direct contact with the product
- Secondary packaging: e.g. the corrugated cardboard box, including adhesive tape and label
- Tertiary packaging: e.g. the pallet, including stretch film for transport
Important to note: A separate declaration of conformity is required for each of these three levels.
The EU Declaration of Conformity is the document by which a manufacturer demonstrates that its packaging complies with the requirements of Articles 5–12 of the PPWR. It must comply with the model set out in Annex VIII to the Regulation, be drawn up in the relevant national language and be kept up to date at all times. By issuing it, the manufacturer assumes responsibility for the packaging’s compliance. It has been mandatory since 12 August 2026.
If you are considered a producer under the PPWR – i.e. if you are responsible for the final design of your packaging – you are obliged to draw up a declaration of conformity. This applies regardless of whether the packaging is primary, secondary or tertiary. A separate declaration is required for each type of packaging. You can find out more about your specific status as a party to the Regulation on our page on parties and obligations.
Online Seminar: Implementing PPWR – Focus on Corrugated Cardboard Transport Packaging
Compact online course on the PPWR: Covers key obligations, design and recycling requirements for corrugated cardboard transport packaging, as well as practical implementation tips for companies. Ideal for procurement, product development, and sustainability.
Contact: Working together towards PPWR-compliant packaging
The PPWR is complex, but you are not on your own. Your personal Klingele account manager knows the ins and outs and can assess the impact on your business on a case-by-case basis.