The new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is now changing the way businesses across Europe manage packaging.
The aim of the regulation is to reduce packaging waste, improve recycling and make packaging more sustainable.
If your business sells products into the EU, the new rules may affect the packaging you use. This includes cardboard boxes, mailing bags, protective packaging, pallet wrap, food packaging and many other types of packaging.
What is the PPWR?
PPWR stands for Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.
The regulation covers most packaging placed on the EU market and introduces new rules around areas such as:
- Packaging materials and composition
- Recyclability
- Recycled content
- Packaging reduction
- Labelling
- Reuse and refill
- Substances used in packaging
- Compliance documentation
Some requirements already apply, while others will be introduced gradually over the next few years.
Does the PPWR affect UK businesses?
Yes, it can.
Even though the UK is no longer part of the EU, businesses supplying packaging or packaged goods into EU countries still need to consider the PPWR.
If you export products to the EU, your customers may also start asking you for more information about the packaging you use.
This could include product specifications, material information or a Declaration of Conformity.
What is a PPWR Declaration of Conformity?
A Declaration of Conformity is a document confirming that a particular packaging product meets the relevant requirements of the PPWR.
These declarations normally relate to a specific type of packaging rather than every product supplied by a company.
For example, a cardboard box, stretch wrap and plastic mailing bag may each need their own supporting information.
The exact documentation required will depend on the product and how it is being used.
Do Packaging Products Online products meet the PPWR requirements?
All Packaging Products Online products supplied for use within the EU are required to meet the relevant PPWR requirements that apply to them at the time they are supplied.
We work with our manufacturers and suppliers to make sure the correct product information and supporting documentation is available.
Depending on the product, we may be able to provide:
- A Declaration of Conformity
- Product specifications
- Material information
- Supplier declarations
- Food contact documentation
- Other supporting compliance information
Because different packaging products have different requirements, documentation should always be requested for the specific item you are purchasing.
Need a PPWR declaration?
If one of your customers has asked you for a PPWR declaration, or you need supporting documents for packaging being supplied into the EU, please contact us.
To help us deal with your request quickly, please include:
- The product name or SKU
- Your order number, if available
- What the packaging will be used for
- Whether it will be used with food
- Which EU country the product is being supplied to
Our team can then check the product and confirm what documentation is available.
We are here to help with PPWR compliance
We understand that new packaging regulations can be confusing, particularly when customers are asking for declarations or compliance documents.
If you are unsure what information you need, speak to our team.
We can help identify the correct product documentation and provide the relevant information available for the packaging you purchase from us.
Need a PPWR Declaration of Conformity or supporting documentation?
Contact Packaging Products Online on 0330 043 2121 or email info@packagingproductsonline.co.uk.