The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has applied since 12 August 2026. From 2030 it requires minimum recycled content in plastic packaging: 10% for contact-sensitive packaging other than PET, 30% for contact-sensitive PET and bottles, 35% for other plastic packaging, rising to 65% by 2040.
Nobody is against less waste. But a target that cannot be met does not protect the environment: it weakens those who still manufacture in Europe.
The PPWR only covers packaging. Technical parts such as clips, housings or medical gauges are not subject to these thresholds.
The material is not there
AMI estimates that more than 11 million tonnes of recyclate a year will be needed. Yet Plastics Recyclers Europe says almost 1 million tonnes of EU recycling capacity was lost between 2023 and the end of 2025, and that the EU could miss its 2030 target by 2 million tonnes, largely because of cheap imported recyclate.
Some plastics cannot yet be made from recyclate
Recycled grades vary from batch to batch. For food contact, PET is the only recycling technology recognised so far; recycled PP and PE processes are still being assessed. Clear parts and low-volume engineering polymers (PA, POM, PC, PPSU) have almost no recyclate supply.
We've seen this film before
The 2035 combustion-engine ban was voted in 2022; in December 2025 the Commission proposed softening it to a 90% CO2 reduction. Belgium voted to exit nuclear power in 2003 and repealed that law in May 2025. Ambitious dates, industry warnings, then a step back years later.
For the practical obligations, see what the PPWR changes for moulded parts.
Not sure whether the PPWR applies to your part? Send us your file.
