The most frequently asked questions about the PPWR, answered briefly. Is your question not among them? The PPWR Check gives a personal answer based on your role, market and material.
What does PPWR mean?+
PPWR stands for Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, formally Regulation (EU) 2025/40. It is the European packaging regulation that replaces the packaging directive of 1994. Because it is a regulation and not a directive, it applies directly in all 27 member states, without a national transposition law.
When does the PPWR take effect?+
The regulation entered into force on 11 February 2025. Most of the obligations become enforceable on 12 August 2026. Additional requirements then follow in 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2035, 2038 and 2040.
Does the PPWR also apply to small businesses?+
Yes. There is no general exemption for SMEs. The substance restrictions, the traceability obligation and the declaration of conformity apply regardless of company size. Micro-enterprises are, however, exempt from the reuse targets, and in certain cases from the manufacturer obligations.
What is the difference between manufacturer and producer?+
The manufacturer designs or has the packaging made under its own name or brand — there is one in the entire EU. The producer is the first to place the packaging on the market in a specific member state and bears the EPR obligation there. One company can have both roles, and be a producer in several member states.
Who enforces the PPWR in the Netherlands?+
The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT). Non-conforming packaging may not be placed on the market. This can lead to fines and to removal of the packaging from the market. During an inspection, the declaration of conformity may be requested.
Is there a transition arrangement for existing stock?+
Packaging produced before 12 August 2026 benefits from a transition arrangement. New production runs after that date must comply. There is no general grace period.
Do coffee pads and tea bags fall under the PPWR?+
Yes. The packaging definition has been broadened. Coffee pads and tea bags are subject to a reporting obligation from 12 August 2026; coffee capsules from 1 January 2027. For many companies this means reporting on a stream they have never declared before.
Does my name have to be on the packaging?+
Yes. From 12 August 2026 the name, postal address and an electronic means of contact of the manufacturer appear on the packaging or behind a QR code, plus a type, batch or serial number. Importers add their own details.
May I still use the Green Dot?+
From 12 February 2027 the Green Dot symbol may no longer appear on the packaging, unless it is made accessible via a QR code.
Which packaging will be banned in 2030?+
Six categories: shrink wrap around multipacks, single-use plastic around fresh fruit and vegetables under 1.5 kg, single-use tableware for on-site consumption in hospitality, sachets for sauces and sugar, miniature packaging for cosmetics in hotels, and plastic carrier bags thinner than 15 microns.
How much recycled material will my packaging need to contain?+
From 2030, for packaging that is at least 5% plastic: 30% in PET with food contact, 10% in non-PET with food contact, 30% in single-use beverage bottles and 35% in other plastic. In 2040 these percentages rise to 50, 25, 65 and 65 percent respectively.
Does production waste count as recycled material?+
No. It concerns exclusively post-consumer recyclate, measured on average per plant per year. Post-industrial material does not count.
Is the PPWR Check legal advice?+
No. It is an informative self-check based on the published regulation text and public guidance. Parts of the regulation are still being filled in via delegated and implementing acts, and member states may impose additional requirements.