The European Commission has presented an updated draft of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), setting binding targets for recycled content in plastic packaging and a 65% recycling rate by 2030.

The European Union is stepping up its fight against packaging waste with new legislative proposals that tighten recycling obligations across member states. The revised Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces:

Minimum recycled content quotas for plastic packaging in direct food-contact applications.

A 65% recycling target for all plastic packaging by 2030, compared to the current 50%.

Mandatory reuse and refill schemes in sectors such as beverages, take-away food, and e-commerce.

Eco-design requirements, obliging producers to simplify packaging formats and improve recyclability.

The European Commission argues these measures are necessary to reduce the EU’s dependency on virgin plastics, cut CO₂ emissions, and stimulate investment in recycling infrastructure. However, industry stakeholders have raised concerns regarding feasibility, costs, and the risk of increased reliance on imports of recycled materials.

The regulation is expected to enter into force in 2026, after approval by the European Parliament and Council.