The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces a transformative shift in the packaging industry, targeting a substantial reduction in packaging waste and mandating all packaging to be recyclable by 2030.
We realize that navigating the world of recyclable packaging might seem daunting, but fear not! At INTRAMA, we're here to shed light on what exactly defines a "recyclable" packaging within the proposed PPWR framework.
So, when Does Flexible Packaging Become Recyclable?
Recyclability isn't just about the material itself. Here are the criteria your packaging must meet to be deemed recyclable under the PPWR framework:
1. Designed for Recycling:
- Material Selection: The package should be produced from materials with established recycling streams in Europe. Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) are prime choices due to their widespread recyclability.
- Mono-material: Packaging designs should avoid material mixtures within the packaging. However, incorporating Ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) up to 5-6% for gas barrier needs is a widely accepted practice.
- Design Optimization: Packaging designs should minimize material usage without compromising product protection, facilitating more efficient recycling processes.
2. Meeting the Minimum Recyclability Threshold:
- Minimum Threshold: Packaging must achieve a minimum 70% recyclability rate to align with PPWR standards.
3. Effective Collection and Sorting
- Effective and efficient collection: The packaging must be effectively and efficiently separately collected. According to us, meeting these criteria goes beyond the control of single businesses packing their products. That is why in our opinion as long as your packaging is produced from materials with established recycling streams and meets the labeling requirements; you are on the safe side.
- Clean Sorting: The package must be sorted into the individual waste streams in the sorting facilities without affecting the recyclability of the other waste streams. According to us, again meeting these criteria goes beyond the control of single businesses packing their products. That is why, in our opinion, meeting the sorting criteria is practically done by meeting the criteria for designing your packaging for recycling.
4. High-Quality Recycling
- Premium Secondary Materials: The recycled material obtained from your packaging should be of high quality, allowing it to replace virgin materials.
5. Recycled at scale
- Packaging should be recyclable at scale by 2035, necessitating the establishment of requisite infrastructure.
How can INTRAMA assist you?
- Tailored Solutions: We can identify the most suitable recyclable packaging solution tailored to your product's requirements.
- Regulatory Compliance: Stay abreast of evolving PPWR regulations with our solutions designed to meet circular economy demands.
Ready to Embrace PPWR-Compliant Flexible Packaging?
INTRAMA is here to help! Contact us to discuss your specific needs and explore our wide range of recyclable solutions. Together, we can ensure your packaging protects your products and the planet.