Negotiations of new EU rules on sustainable packaging to kick off in 2024

The Council of the European Union has adopted a stance for negotiations on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) proposed by the European Commission in November 2022.

“The Council maintained the scope of the Commission’s proposal, covering all packaging, regardless of the material used, and all packaging waste, regardless of its origin (including industry, manufacturing, retail, households),” a European Council
press release says.

The legislative body, formed by all Member States, agreed with the EU Commission that all packaging placed on the market must be recyclable but added that packaging will be considered recyclable “when the waste packaging can be separately collected, sorted and recycled at scale.”

Member States endorsed the PPWR’s provision, targeting a 15% reduction in packaging waste in the region by 2040. “By 2034, the Commission will have to review the implementation of the 2030 targets and assess the feasibility of the 2040 targets,” reads the proposal.

Other amendments

The Council also agreed to include more clarifications in the legislation regarding packaging labeling. Member States want to ensure “that consumers are well informed about the material composition of packaging and its proper disposal when it becomes waste.”

It also extended the date of application of the new set of rules to 18 months after it is entered into force.

What’s next?

The Council’s position will serve as the mandate for negotiations with the European Parliament to draft the final legislation.

Both legislative powers will start negotiations on the final shape of the legislation under the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, starting on 1 January 2024.