Simplify PPWR compliance across the EU with Valpak

The PPWR is a new EU regulation replacing the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC). It sets harmonised rules for packaging design, recyclability, labelling, reuse, and reporting across all EU Member States — ensuring a circular, sustainable packaging system.

The PPWR entered into force on 11 February 2025 and will apply from 12 August 2026. Businesses should prepare for phased implementation between 2026 and 2030 as Delegated and Implementing Acts introduce detailed compliance obligations.

Any business placing packaged goods on the EU market, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, and online retailers, must comply. This includes UK-based companies selling into the EU.

Unlike the previous directive, the PPWR is directly applicable in all EU Member States, meaning no national transposition is needed. It introduces uniform labelling requirements, mandatory recyclability criteria, reuse targets, and digital data reporting obligations.

Key milestones include:

• 11 February 2025: Regulation entered into force
• 12 August 2026: Regulation becomes applicable
• 2026–2030: Phased introduction of delegated and implementing acts
• 2040: final requirements come into force

All packaging must feature harmonised waste sorting labels. These labels help consumers sort waste correctly and improve recycling rates. Valpak provides a custom PPWR Labelling Report to help you meet these requirements.

Online marketplaces are now responsible for ensuring that third-party sellers using their platforms comply with PPWR requirements, extending accountability throughout the digital supply chain.

Valpak’s PPWR Core Service provides end-to-end support, from impact assessments and labelling guidance to data reporting and compliance strategy. Our experts track every update, ensuring your business stays compliant across all 27 EU Member States.

Valpak offers ongoing updates, webinars, and expert insights as the regulation evolves, helping you track key deadlines and understand the impact of future implementing acts.

Packaging manufacturers must complete a conformity assessment procedure. This means they need to prepare and keep technical documentation and a Declaration of Conformity demonstrating that their packaging meets each applicable sustainability requirement under the PPWR.

Producers (companies placing packaging or packaged products on the market) are responsible for ensuring that, when they are not the manufacturer, the packaging they use is supported by the required technical documentation and Declaration of Conformity.

In short: manufacturers prove compliance, and producers verify that proof is in place.

Find out more about our PPWR Data Service here.

The Declaration of Conformity is a formal document completed as part of the conformity assessment procedure. It confirms that the manufacturer is responsible for ensuring their packaging complies with the applicable requirements.

A Declaration of Conformity must be issued for each packaging unit placed on the market in the EU and Northern Ireland.

The document must include:

• A unique identifier for the packaging

• The name and address of the manufacturer

• A formal statement declaring that the packaging complies with the relevant requirements

If you would like more information on how to prepare a Declaration of Conformity, please contact us by calling 03450 682 572.