PPWR PUBLISHED IN THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) was published in the Official Journal of the EU on 22 January. The new Regulation introduces new sustainability requirements for packaging, including on labelling, collection, treatment, and recycling of packaging waste.
The PPWR sets stringent targets for reducing, reusing, and recycling packaging. By 2030, all packaging must comply with design-for-recycling criteria, and by 2035, it must be recyclable on a large scale. Transport packaging, such as pallets and crates, will need to achieve reuse targets of 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2040, driving a significant shift toward reusable systems in logistics operations. However, these measures pose substantial challenges for the transport sector, particularly in terms of operational feasibility and cost implications.
CLECAT has raised concerns about the practical implications of the Regulation for freight forwarders and logistics providers. The reuse targets, while ambitious, may disrupt established supply chain practices, especially for cross-border or one-way shipments. Exemptions for certain types of transport packaging, such as those used for dangerous goods or large-scale machinery, provide some relief, but the inconsistent application of these exemptions across Member States could complicate compliance. Additionally, the significant reporting and administrative burdens tied to reuse targets are expected to increase costs and complexity for the sector.
With the Regulation now approved, the focus shifts to secondary legislation, which will provide clarity on key aspects such as labelling requirements, calculation methods for reuse targets, and enforcement mechanisms. CLECAT calls on the European Commission to publish the results of its investigation into the possibility of exempting plastic packaging from reuse targets. This step is essential to ensure that the implementation of the rules reflects the operational realities of the transport sector. Additionally, CLECAT emphasises the importance of promoting harmonisation across Member States to prevent fragmentation in the implementation of the Regulation.