Portugal Launches “Volta” DRS to Close the Recycling Gap
Portugal has officially launched “Volta”, a Deposit Return Scheme using the €0.10 incentive and real-time barcode tracking to meet the 2029 recycling targets.
EN 18120: The New European Standard for Design for Recycling
The CEN has released the EN 18120 standard, a 14-part framework setting the technical roadmap for plastic packaging recyclability. Businesses have until October 2026 to align with these harmonized European rules.
What the PPWR Means for Everyday Consumers
The European Commission’s new fact sheet clarifies how the PPWR transforms the shopping experience. By mandating less excessive packaging and clear sorting labels, it aims to reduce waste while lowering costs.
Key Points of the New PPWR Guidance and FAQ Documents
The European Commission released the long-awaited Guidance and FAQ documents regarding the PPWR. These publications provide official positions on the August 2026 deadline, the retirement of standard EN 13428 and strict PFAS restrictions.
Union Register for Novel Plastic Recycling Technologies
The European Commission has released version 1.1 of the Union Register for Novel Technologies. This register validates specific recycling processes and decontamination installations under Regulation (EU) 2022/1616.
PPWR Article 29: Why 40% Reuse Targets are Unachievable for Transport Packaging
Over 60 European trade associations have issued a joint statement urging the European Commission to exempt pallet wraps and straps from PPWR Article 29 reuse targets. The industry warns that the current mandate is technically and economically unfeasible.
The Power of Packaging: How Sustainability is Redefining Consumer Loyalty
The 2026 Pro Carton survey reveals that 64% of consumers prioritize ease of recycling. With 54% of young shoppers switching brands over packaging choices, sustainability has become a tool for customer retention.
UK pEPR 2026: From Flat Fees to Recyclability-Based Costs
The UK’s packaging landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the full implementation of pEPR. Transitioning from flat fees to a data-driven RAG rating system, the government has essentially turned packaging design into a matter of financial risk management.
Regulation (EU) 2026/250: Clarifying BPA Requirements and Compliance Deadlines
The European Commision has adopted Regulation (EU) 2026/250 to resolve technical inconsistencies regarding BPA restrictions in food contact materials. This correction clarifies verification protocols and provides a timeline for transitional periods through 2029.
Packaging Industry Calls for Single Market Legal Basis in EU Circular Economy Act
A broad coalition of European packaging organizations has called on EU policymakers to anchor the upcoming Circular Economy Act (CEA) in the legal framework of the EU Single Market.
Thailand: Consultation on Updated Regulations for Food Packaging Containers
Thailand FDA packaging update: New consultation on MOPH Announcement No. 92 introduces strict BPA, PFAS and migration limits for metal, paper and glass.
Philippines Drafts Guidelines for Food-Contact Articles
New Philippines food contact materials regulation strengthens FDA packaging safety controls and chemical migration limits for food packaging compliance.