Explainer
What the regulation asks of you
Each topic gives you the requirement in plain language, then the work it creates.
14 of 14 topics
Scope & who is covered
Which packaging and which companies the rules reach.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Distributor · Retailer / final distributor
Design for recycling
All packaging must be recyclable, graded A, B or C.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer
Recycled content in plastic packaging
30–35% post-consumer recycled plastic from 2030, rising by 2040.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer
Packaging minimisation & empty space
Minimum necessary weight and volume; 50% empty-space cap.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Distributor
Labelling & consumer sorting information
Harmonised composition labels from 2028; reuse labels from 2029.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Retailer / final distributor
Reuse, refill & reusable packaging
40% reusable transport packaging and 10% beverages from 2030.
Producer / manufacturer · Distributor · Retailer / final distributor
Restricted & banned formats
Annex V formats off the market from 1 January 2030.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Retailer / final distributor
Substances of concern & PFAS
100 mg/kg heavy-metal limit; PFAS limits from 12 August 2026.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer
Producer registration & EPR
Register before you sell; report volumes by 1 June each year.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer
Conformity, documentation & declarations
Technical file per item, EU declaration of conformity, chain checks.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Distributor · Retailer / final distributor
Deposit return systems
90% separate collection of drinks containers by 1 January 2029.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Retailer / final distributor
Compostable packaging
Named formats must be industrially compostable from 12 February 2028.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Retailer / final distributor
Waste prevention targets
Per-capita packaging waste down 5% by 2030 against 2018.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Distributor · Retailer / final distributor
Enforcement & penalties
Warning first, then withdrawal or national fines.
Producer / manufacturer · Importer · Distributor · Retailer / final distributor