PPWR 2025: The EU Packaging Regulation that changes everything starting August 12, 2026

In February 2025, the European Union formally enacted Regulation (EU) 2025/40, better known as the PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. This binding regulation introduces new mandatory standards for the design, use, recyclability, and reuse of packaging across Europe.

While the PPWR came into force in February 2025, its application becomes mandatory for all businesses as of August 12, 2026.

Unlike the previous Directive 94/62/EC—which allowed member states some flexibility in transposition—the PPWR is directly applicable and requires companies to make concrete changes to their packaging systems in line with circular economy principles.

The PPWR key objectives:

• Reduce packaging waste by 5% by 2030, and up to 15% by 2040
• Ensure all packaging is fully recyclable by 2030 under harmonized EU criteria
• Introduce mandatory recycled content for plastics
• Ban certain single-use packaging and hazardous substances such as PFAS
• Implement standardized labeling across the EU to simplify waste sorting
• Define reuse requirements for sectors like food, beverage, and cosmetics

The goal is clear: to transform packaging from an environmental burden into a circular asset, lowering ecological impact and building a more sustainable single market.

Starting in August 2026, companies operating in the EU must comply with the new requirements—or risk facing restrictions on product placement and financial penalties. Businesses will need to:

• Introduce optimized, reduced packaging formats
• Transition to refillable or reusable packaging systems
• Use sustainable, recycled materials
• Improve the environmental performance of their production lines

This regulatory shift impacts the entire supply chain… but Zambelli Packaging is already future-ready.

While the industry prepares to face the transition, Zambelli Packaging has already developed solutions ready for the new European regulations. Here’s how:

✅ Precise handling of new compact formats
Zambelli Packaging machines – including shrink wrappers, case packers, and combined lines – are already capable of processing lighter and more compact formats with maximum precision, in full compliance with the volume reduction requirements set by the PPWR.
This allows client companies to optimize logistics, transportation, and shelf display, while reducing waste and costs.

✅ Compatibility with reusable packaging and refill systems
Thanks to their flexible design, Zambelli Packaging solutions are already able to handle reusable packaging such as returnable trays, refillable containers, or packaging designed for refill models.
This enables companies to easily convert their lines towards more sustainable and circular consumption models, aligned with EU objectives.

✅ Low-consumption shrink tunnels
Zambelli Packaging shrink tunnels are engineered to ensure maximum energy efficiency: according to internal tests, they consume up to 97% less than competitor models.
This not only drastically lowers operating costs but also contributes concretely to achieving ESG goals and reducing the carbon footprint of the entire production process.

✅ Ready for recycled and compostable materials
Zambelli Packaging machines are fully compatible with the use of alternative and sustainable materials such as recycled films, compostable substrates, and low-impact packaging.
They ensure high performance even when working with materials that are more complex to process.

The new European Packaging Regulation is not a barrier—it’s a turning point for innovation. Companies that choose to adapt in time will strengthen their competitiveness, unlock access to new markets, and enhance their environmental reputation.
With Zambelli Packaging, the transition has already begun. Our technologies are designed to help you comply with the new regulations, optimize your processes, and build a more sustainable and productive future.

📩 Get in touch today for a personalized consultation: contact@zambelli.it