6. January 20254 Minutes

New legislation: The new PPWR regulations for e-commerce

New legislation: The new PPWR regulations for e-commerce

In December 2024, the European Council formally adopted the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) – a decisive step towards reducing packaging waste and promoting sustainable packaging solutions.

What does this mean?
1. January 2025: publication in the Official Journal of the EU.
2. 20 days later: entry into force of the Regulation.
3. 18 months after: Mandatory application in all Member States.

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation introduces several key requirements to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability:

Material and Substance Restrictions (Article 5):

• Packaging must contain minimal harmful substances.
• This includes both the packaging material itself and all components like inks and coatings.
• The goal is to reduce environmental impact throughout the packaging’s lifecycle.
In online webshops, shipping packaging is subject to stricter requirements and guidelines. For traders of electronic goods, regarding filler materials (according to Article 21), the void space ratio must not exceed 50%. Void space refers to the space in packaging filled with filler materials such as paper, air cushions, bubble wrap, foam, or similar. The void space ratio is the ratio between the total volume and the volume of the contained products.

Recyclability (Article 6.1):

  • All packaging must be recyclable.
  • Packaging should be designed for easy separation and recycling of its components.
  • It should be compatible with existing waste collection and recycling systems.

 

Packaging Minimization (Article 9.1 and 21):

  • Packaging should be minimized in weight and volume.
  • Unnecessary packaging, such as excessive void fill, is prohibited.

Reusable Packaging (Article 10):

  • Reusable packaging must be designed for multiple use cycles.
  • It should be easily cleaned and refilled without compromising product quality or safety.
  • The packaging should be able to undergo as many cycles as possible under normal usage conditions – the benchmark for packaging is 5 for cardboard and 10 for all other materials.

 

Labeling (Article 11.1):

  • Packaging must be labeled with information about its material composition which includes the ingredients processed in the packaging.
  • This helps consumers and waste management facilities correctly sort and recycle packaging.
  • According to Article 14, suppliers of packaging or packaging materials must provide information and documents that certify conformity and inform.

Producer Responsibility and mandatory representation in all EU countries (Article 40.2):

“A manufacturer shall appoint, by written mandate, a designated representative for extended producer responsibility in each Member State where he first makes packaging available, except in the Member State where he is established.”

  • Manufacturers and importers are responsible for the entire lifecycle of their packaging, including proper disposal and recycling.
  • They need to appoint an authorized representative in each EU country where they place packaging on the market.

Ensuring Compliance – suppliers, retailers and distributors obligations:

  • Suppliers must provide information and documentation to certify that their packaging complies with the regulations.
  • Retailers and distributors should verify that the packaging they sell or distribute meets these requirements.

By adhering to these regulations, businesses can contribute to a more sustainable future and avoid potential penalties.

Understanding and complying with PRO regulations is essential for foreign e-commerce businesses operating in Slovenia. By taking proactive steps to fulfill your PRO obligations, you can protect your business, contribute to a sustainable future, and build trust with Slovenian consumers.

PPWR for E-commerce