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ARTICLE · 09 SEPTEMBER 2026

Unboxing The New EU Packaging Regulation

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The EU Packaging Regulation introduces sweeping reforms to packaging and packaging waste legislation across all Member States, establishing requirements for the entire lifecycle of packaging from labelling to environmental sustainability. With ambitious targets to reduce packaging waste per capita by 15% by 2040 and mandatory recyclability standards taking effect from 2030, businesses involved in product packaging face significant compliance obligations that will fundamentally reshape how they design, manuf

European UnionEnvironment
Darragh Killeen
Darragh Killeen
Shannon Fahy
Shannon Fahy
Ellen McKenna
Ellen McKenna

The EU Packaging Regulation is now in force, with key reforms to packaging and packaging waste legislation being introduced on a staggered basis. Businesses, including manufacturers, distributors, importers and suppliers, should thoroughly consider these reforms and take proactive steps to ensure compliance.

On 12 August 2026, Directive 94/62/EC was replaced by Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste. The Regulation establishes requirements for the entire life-cycle of packaging in respect of its labelling and environmental sustainability, as well as requirements for extended producer responsibility, and package waste prevention, collection, and treatment. It applies to all packaging, regardless of the material used, and to all packaging waste. 

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