Sustainability and Innovation in packaging - a 2026+ buyer guide

1. What you need to know: EU regulation (PPWR) by 2030

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) harmonizes packaging rules across all Member States, replacing the 1994 Directive.‍

Key requirements and dates:

• 2030: All packaging must be recyclable according to Design-for-Recycling (DfR) criteria (≥70% recyclability).
• Mandatory Compostability: Specific packaging formats (e.g., tea bags, coffee pods, sticky fruit labels) will be required to be compostable.

Member States must meet recycling targets by 2030:

• 70% of all packaging by weight
• 55% of plastic, 85% of paper/cardboard, and more

Buyer takeaway: Your packaging must be designed now to meet DfR and recyclability thresholds, or risk EPR penalties and market barriers.

2. Key trends and timeline breakdown

3. Practical impact for buyers: what to do now

• Design for Recyclability (DfR): Compliance requires engineering materials to be mono-material assemblies. For instance, plastic films should remain 95% single polymer, and unnecessary layers must be avoided.
• Eliminate PFAS and heavy metals: If you use paper for greasy food (e.g., bakery), switching to a certified barrier coating is critical to ensure safety without PFAS.
• Plan for Recycled Content: Integrate PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) materials.
• Prepare for labeling: Packaging must display recyclability information under PPWR rules.
  

4. Materials to consider

• Heat-sealable recyclable paper: For tea, bakery, and kraft formats.
• Monomaterial flexible films: Fully recyclable and compatible with existing systems.
• Certified compostables (e.g., NatureFlex™): Use selectively where composting infrastructure exists and where PPWR requires it.
  

Final thoughts

The journey to 2030 is unavoidable — but smart planning lets you align with EU waste goals, strengthen your brand, and meet sustainability targets in one step.

Leoprint note: We provide recyclable and compostable packaging solutions that meet EU PPWR standards — helping you stay compliant and competitive. For examples of successful compliance projects, see our Case Studies.

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Glossary

• PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, EU law replacing the 1994 Directive, setting recyclability and waste reduction targets by 2030.
• DfR – Design-for-Recycling, packaging designed so its materials can be effectively recycled at scale.
• EPR – Extended Producer Responsibility, system where producers pay for the collection, recycling, or disposal of their packaging.
• PFAS – Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, synthetic chemicals resistant to water, oil, and heat; linked to environmental persistence and health risks.