The PPWR Conformity Assessment Procedure is a critical requirement under the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). But what does it mean in practice for businesses placing packaging on the EU market?
Under the PPWR, packaging can only be placed on the EU and Northern Ireland market if it complies with sustainability requirements and this compliance is formally demonstrated through the conformity assessment procedure.
This process applies to each unique packaging unit and requires both technical documentation and a declaration of conformity.
For further regulatory context, see guidance from the European Commission.
The PPWR Conformity Assessment Procedure ensures compliance with key sustainability requirements set out in Articles 5–12, including:
Each of these areas must be assessed and evidenced as part of the conformity process.
Technical documentation is a core part of the PPWR Conformity Assessment Procedure and provides the evidence needed to demonstrate compliance.
This typically includes:
These documents provide the necessary context and evidence to demonstrate that packaging meets the applicable sustainability requirements. The exact requirements will vary depending on which aspects of compliance are being assessed.
The Declaration of Conformity is a formal statement confirming that packaging meets PPWR requirements.
It:
Both the Declaration of Conformity and technical documentation must be retained for:
Under the PPWR, responsibility sits primarily with the manufacturer. However, other economic operators also play a role:
This shared responsibility ensures that all packaging placed on the EU market meets regulatory requirements.
The process is essential for:
Navigating the PPWR Conformity Assessment Procedure can be complex, but you don’t have to manage it alone.
Visit our PPWR web page
Enquire about our PPWR Advisory Service
Enquire about our PPWR Data Service
Senior International Account Manager Research Lead