Everything you need to know about packaging regulations
- Karine Morel
- [wpcode id="48710"]
Table of content
Sustainable packaging is increasingly being encouraged and regulated to promote environmentally responsible practices.
Public authorities define how companies manage and protect the environment. They establish legal frameworks, implement policies, provide resources, and regulate human activities.
1- AGEC Law – France
The Anti-Waste for a Circular Economy (AGEC) Law represents a major step forward in the fight against waste and environmental protection.
Adopted in France in 2020, this legislation aims to fundamentally transform production and consumption patterns. The AGEC Law embodies a concrete commitment to a more sustainable society by promoting a circular and responsible economy.
The AGEC Law is built around five main objectives:
- Eliminate single-use plastics;
- Better inform consumers;
- Fight waste and promote reuse through social initiatives;
- Combat planned obsolescence;
- Improve production practices.
Its primary objective is to phase out single-use plastic packaging by 2040.
2- European Packaging Legislation
The European Packaging Legislation aims to regulate the design, manufacture, and use of packaging.
Its main objective is to reduce plastic waste while promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging practices. The legislation establishes requirements for recyclability, reuse, and source reduction of packaging materials, encouraging the adoption of innovative and eco-friendly solutions.
The key measures include:
- The phase-out of single-use plastics by January 1, 2030;
- The ban on PFAS in food packaging:
- From 2026, the addition of PFAS to food-contact packaging will be prohibited;
- The implementation of a deposit return system:
- From 2029, a deposit return system will be introduced for waste streams with collection rates below 80%;
- A target of 100% recyclable packaging by 2035:
- From 2030, packaging must be designed to be recyclable;
- By 2035, all packaging must be recycled;
- Mandatory incorporation of recycled plastic and mirror clauses:
- From 2030, plastic packaging must contain at least 10% recycled plastic;
- Provisions will ensure that imported plastic packaging complies with European Union standards.
3- PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (Upcoming)
Approved on March 4, 2024, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) aims to harmonize packaging management across Europe and improve the treatment of packaging waste.
As part of the European Green Deal, launched in 2019, this legislation is one of the pillars of the European Union’s environmental agenda. It seeks to transform European economies and achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
The main objectives of the PPWR are:
- Reduce packaging waste per capita by 15% by 2040;
- Ensure that all packaging placed on the EU market is recyclable by 2030;
- Increase the use of recycled plastics in packaging;
- Clarify packaging labeling to facilitate waste sorting and recycling;
- Regulate bio-based, biodegradable, and compostable packaging to prevent pollution and protect biodiversity.
To achieve these objectives, several measures have been defined:
- Promote reusable and refillable packaging;
- Ban single-use packaging for food consumed on-site;
- Introduce mandatory deposit return systems for plastic bottles and aluminum cans;
- Require minimum levels of recycled content in plastic packaging.
Conclusion
The strengthening of packaging regulations reflects a growing commitment to promoting sustainable packaging practices.
At CGP Coating Innovation, we have developed a new range of packaging solutions that comply with current regulations.
We support you throughout every stage of your environmental transition. Our experts work hand in hand with you from the design phase to develop products that meet environmental standards.
PACKOKRAFT® heat-sealable kraft paper packaging and BANDOKRAFT® heat-sealable paper bundling bands provide sustainable solutions for your packaging needs.
For more information, click here: Our Transition Packaging Solutions
These initiatives aim to transform production and consumption models. They focus on reducing waste, promoting recycling, and encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly packaging solutions.
The combined efforts of public authorities, industry, and consumers are helping create a future in which sustainable packaging becomes the standard, preserving our planet for future generations.
Our team helps you find the solution that meets your needs.