February 11, 2025, will mark a significant milestone in the regulation of packaging and packaging waste within the European Union, with the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2025/40. This regulation introduces new mandatory standards for the packaging sector, aimed at enhancing sustainability and promoting a circular economy. Here are the key points and their impact on the flexible packaging industry.
What is the goal of the regulation?
The primary goal of the regulation is to ensure that all packaging is reusable or recyclable by 2030. Additionally, it aims to:
- Reduce packaging waste through efficient design and minimizing overpackaging.
- Increase the recycled content in packaging materials, particularly plastics.
- Encourage separate collection and high-quality recycling.
- Limit the use of hazardous substances, such as heavy metals and other harmful chemicals.
- Promote the circular economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with packaging life cycles.
Impact on the flexible packaging sector
The flexible packaging sector will be significantly impacted due to its technical complexities and diverse applications. Key changes include:
- Design for recyclability: The use of mono-materials will be prioritized over complex combinations that hinder recycling.
- Mandatory recycled content: Flexible plastic packaging will need to incorporate a minimum percentage of recycled materials starting in 2030.
- Harmonized labeling: Clear labels indicating packaging recyclability and providing disposal guidance to consumers will become mandatory.
- Reduction of overpackaging: Companies will need to justify the design and use of each package, eliminating unnecessary elements.
- Extended producer responsibility: Manufacturers will finance the collection, sorting, and recycling of the packaging they produce.
Key dates
- February 11, 2025: Regulation comes into force.
- 2030: All packaging must be recyclable and include specified proportions of recycled materials.
- 2040: More ambitious goals for waste reduction and packaging circularity will apply.
How to prepare for the regulation
For companies in the flexible packaging sector, adapting to this regulation will be critical to maintaining competitiveness in the European market.
Recommended actions include:
- Redesigning products: Focus on mono-material solutions that facilitate recycling. For example, our ECO range, certified as recyclable by Cyclos-HTP.
- Investing in technology: Develop innovations to meet recyclability and recycled content targets. At SPG, we continuously work to design new packaging with increased recycled content.
- Collaborating with recyclers: Establish partnerships to ensure a reliable supply of high-quality recycled materials.
- Informing consumers: Implement clear and digital labeling systems (e.g., QR codes) to encourage proper recycling. For years, we have worked with our clients to provide all necessary information directly on the packaging without additional labels.
- Financial preparation: Anticipate costs associated with extended producer responsibility fees.
A challenge for the sector, an opportunity for SPG
The entry into force of the European Packaging Regulation 2025 represents a major challenge for the flexible packaging sector. Adapting quickly and leading the transition to a more sustainable model will be essential to succeeding in an increasingly competitive and regulated market.
At SPG, we have been proactive, developing sustainable and recyclable solutions tailored to flexible packaging. We are ready to face this challenge and assist our clients in navigating this adaptation process.