On 22 January 2025, the European Commission published Regulation (EU) 2025/40 in the Official Journal of the European Union, introducing new rules on packaging and packaging waste. This regulation amends Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904 while repealing Directive 94/62/EC.
Why is this regulation important?
Packaging plays a crucial role in protecting products and ensuring their safe transportation. However, packaging materials account for 40% of plastic and 50% of paper consumption in the EU, contributing to 36% of municipal solid waste. The new regulation aims to reduce environmental impact while ensuring the efficient functioning of the internal market.
Key aspects of the regulation:
✅ Covers the entire packaging lifecycle to prevent and reduce adverse environmental and health impacts.
✅ Harmonises national packaging regulations to facilitate a unified internal market.
✅ Introduces conformity assessment to provide a presumption of conformity for packaging.
✅ No third-party conformity assessment required – manufacturers must follow internal production control to ensure compliance.
✅ Testing, measurement, and calculation methods conducted by accredited bodies under Regulation (EC) No 765/2008 will establish conformity with regulatory requirements.
📜 Access the full regulation here:
🔗 Regulation (EU) 2025/40
This regulation marks a significant step towards sustainable packaging practices in the EU. Businesses involved in packaging production and usage should review the new requirements and ensure compliance with the updated legislation.
