PPWR Explained
Miron’s position paper on the PPWR
The PPWR is reshaping packaging across Europe. Here is what it means in practice and how Miron is preparing.
Interview with Martijn R. Otten (COO - Sustainability)
Our vision on PPWR
“We support the goal of the PPWR, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, to reduce the environmental impact of packaging. It fits well with our mission to restore the connection between people, product, and nature. The main challenge is clarity. We still need clear rules on the details, how things are measured, and how they are enforced. This is complex because there are many types of packaging, from single-use food wrappers to oversized shipping boxes, and every EU country has different policies, cultures, and infrastructure.
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We expect the PPWR to focus on packaging that has the biggest environmental impact. This includes single-use, non-recyclable plastics. That is not where Miron fits. Glass is already recognized as a clean material that can be recycled again and again through established recycling systems. Our products are also not single-use. Think about how often you open a vitamin jar or use a room spray.
One area to watch is the unique light-filtering property of Miron glass. Because of its color and composition, it can be more difficult for optical sorting machines to identify. Recycling rates also vary widely across Europe. Finland reaches around 99%, while Portugal is closer to 57% (source). The good news is that the technology already exists and continues to improve, especially as AI becomes more widely used in recycling systems ahead of the 2035 deadline. To support this progress, we are testing small adjustments to our glass formula. The goal is to improve detectability while maintaining the protective qualities and distinctive appearance of Miron glass.
Together with our leading European partners, we are also improving our plastic closures. We are moving away from materials such as UREA and SAN plastics and adopting alternatives like non-glued liners. As the market responds to the new regulations, we expect more options to become available. We will continue to support and guide our customers through these changes in the years ahead.
We see a strong future ahead and will keep investing in Miron to stay true to our purpose.”
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A natural fit for the future of packaging
Miron glass protects what’s important. It uses a durable material that performs well. As packaging rules change, this foundation grows more relevant.
At a glance
Executive summary
The PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) is an EU law that applies to all packaged products sold in the European Union. Its goal is to reduce the environmental impact of packaging and create consistent rules across all EU countries.
The PPWR focuses on five main goals: reducing packaging waste, increasing reuse, improving recyclability, increasing the use of recycled materials, and limiting compostable packaging to situations where it provides a clear benefit.
The first key deadline is August 12, 2026, when the PPWR begins to take effect. More design and compliance rules will come after 2030. Stricter reuse and recycling targets will be set in the following years.
For Miron, the outlook is positive. Glass already supports many of the PPWR goals because it is durable and fully recyclable. Miron glass is widely collected across Europe as colored glass, and its design already avoids unnecessary weight. By reducing extra weight, we are able to improve optical sorting. This helps recycling work better. Its strong ingredient protection and premium appearance can also encourage reuse. This gives Miron and its customers a strong starting position.
Because the PPWR looks at the entire package, the biggest changes are expected to involve closures rather than the glass itself. Components such as caps, pumps, and pipettes are often more complex and more difficult to recycle. As a result, they require the most attention. Miron is already teaming up with top European partners. They are working on better solutions to prepare for these changes. These include more mono-material closures. They also feature alternatives to plastics like UREA and SAN. Lastly, there are options like non-glued liners.
Miron customers are already well prepared, and no major disruption is expected. Customers may be guided to better closure options over time. This change will be gradual and manageable. Before August 12, 2026, Miron will provide customers with a Declaration of Conformity (packaging passport) and, where relevant, information about PFAS content.
Miron glass is already well aligned with the future of packaging in Europe. Customers can expect practical help. There will be limited disruption. They will also get ongoing support as rules change.
Understanding the regulation
Introducing the PPWR as the new EU packaging law
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) (EU) 2025/40 is a must-follow rule. Its goal is to lessen the environmental impact of packaging. At the same time, it aims to align rules across all EU member states to ensure the free movement of products. If your business puts something in a package and sells it in the EU, this rule applies to you.
The full text of the regulation can be found here.
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The PPWR is built on 5 key pillars
These five pillars target packaging waste. They aim to make packaging smaller and smarter. The goal is for packaging to be truly reusable and recyclable at scale while incorporating more recycled content.
1. Prevention
“Use less packaging, but keep it functional.”
The first pillar focuses on reducing packaging waste through better design. Packaging should use only the material needed to protect the product. It should keep the product safe and clean while also supporting practical use.
Features that add extra material but no clear benefit will be limited. This includes false bottoms, double walls, excessive empty space, and unnecessary layers.
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At the same time, prevention is not about reducing packaging at any cost. The PPWR recognizes that packaging still needs to protect the product, be easy to use, support safe handling, and help consumers recognize the brand.
In other words, packaging should use only what is needed, but it still needs to do its job. Packaging that offers less protection, is harder to use, or no longer serves its purpose may not meet the requirements either.
New rules for packaging minimization will arrive by 2028. These rules will be mandatory starting January 1, 2030.
Some packaging designs can get exemptions. This includes shapes with trademark or design rights. These must be protected before February 11, 2025.
Starting in 2030, certain packaging formats will also be banned. These include single-use condiment sachets, small hotel toiletry bottles, and some plastic packaging used for fresh fruits and vegetables.
2. Reuse
“Packaging must not only be reusable in theory but also reused in practice.”
The second pillar encourages a shift from single-use packaging to true reuse systems.
Under the PPWR, packaging is reusable only if it’s part of a system. This system must include collection, cleaning, refurbishment, tracking, and customer return incentives.
Simply making packaging durable is no longer enough. To qualify as reusable, it must be part of a system that allows it to be used again and again.
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Starting January 1, 2030, reusable packaging must be part of an approved reuse system. Companies will need to show that the packaging is actually being collected, returned, cleaned, and reused.
Producers and importers must prove they are part of these systems. They must keep the right documents. They also need to report data through producer responsibility programs.
The PPWR also introduces reuse targets, especially for beverages. By 2030, 10% of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages must be sold in reusable packaging or refill systems. This target increases to 40% by 2040.
These targets apply at the national level within EU member states, but companies may still need to support them through their operations and reporting.
For glass, this creates a strong opportunity. Glass is durable, stable, and easy to clean. However, it is only considered reusable when it is part of a documented system that collects, returns, and reuses the packaging.
3. Recyclability
“Packaging must be designed for recycling and, later, actually recycled at scale.”
The third pillar focuses on making packaging easier to recycle.
Starting January 1, 2030, all packaging must be designed for recycling and achieve at least a Grade C recyclability rating. This means it must be at least 70% recyclable.
The PPWR introduces a grading system with three levels: A, B, and C. These grades are based on how effectively a package can be collected, sorted, and recycled.
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By February 12, 2028, certain types of packaging must be compostable in industrial composting facilities. These include:
Single-use coffee and tea capsules that contain organic material
Adhesive labels attached directly to fresh fruits and vegetables
Tea bags and infusion filter bags
Bags used to collect household organic waste, where local systems allow it
These products must meet official technical standards and include clear labels explaining that they are compostable, what they are made of, and any other required information.
It is important to note that these products must be suitable for industrial composting, not home composting.
More detailed rules and testing requirements are expected before 2028. Guidance on how to apply the rules and use the labels is expected in August 2026. Producers and importers will be responsible for meeting both the technical and labeling requirements.
For most packaging, compostability will remain the exception rather than the norm. The PPWR states that compostable packaging should only be used when it provides a clear environmental benefit and when suitable collection and composting systems are available.
4. Recycled Content
“Use more recycled material, especially in plastics.”
The fourth pillar aims to cut down on new raw materials. It does this by boosting the use of recycled materials, particularly in plastic packaging.
Under the PPWR, plastic packaging must contain a minimum amount of recycled content starting in 2030. These requirements will become stricter from 2040 onward.
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Starting in 2030, plastic packaging must contain a minimum amount of recycled material. The main targets are:
30% recycled content for food-contact PET packaging
10% for food-contact plastic packaging. This is for materials other than PET. Single-use beverage bottles are not included.
30% for single-use plastic beverage bottles
35% for other plastic packaging
These targets increase in 2040:
50% for food-contact PET packaging
25% for food-contact non-PET packaging
65% for single-use plastic beverage bottles
At present, these requirements mainly apply to plastics. There are no mandatory recycled content targets for glass, aluminum, wood, or paper packaging. However, the European Commission may review this in the future.
Glass and aluminum recycle well. So, they could gain if future rules include more than just plastics.
The regulation also leaves room for future rules on biobased plastics. These materials may eventually receive specific sustainability requirements or, in some cases, count toward recycled content targets if recycling options remain limited.
5. Compostability
“Only compost where it genuinely makes sense.”
The fifth pillar does not make all packaging compostable. Quite the opposite. It sets compostability rules for certain packaging types. These types often mix with organic waste. They can also spoil recycling streams.
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Starting in 2030, plastic packaging must contain a minimum amount of recycled material.
The targets are:
30% recycled content for food-contact PET packaging
10% for food-contact plastic packaging made from materials other than PET
30% for single-use plastic beverage bottles
35% for other plastic packaging
These targets increase in 2040:
50% for food-contact PET packaging
25% for food-contact non-PET packaging
65% for single-use plastic beverage bottles
For now, these requirements mainly apply to plastics. There are currently no recycled content requirements for glass, aluminum, wood, or paper packaging. However, the European Commission may review this in the future.
Glass and aluminum have strong recycling systems. If future rules expand to include more materials, they could benefit.
The regulation also leaves room for future rules on biobased plastics. These materials might have their own sustainability rules. They could help meet recycled content goals. This is true if recycling options are still limited.
Milestones
PPWR Timeline
The PPWR started in 2025, became applicable in 2026, defines the technical rulebook by 2027 to 2028, drives major compliance changes from 2030, and tightens towards fully circular packaging by 2040.
2025: Regulation adopted and enters into force
The PPWR is officially published on 22 January 2025 and enters into force on 11 February 2025. This is the legal starting point of the new EU packaging framework. The first annual reporting cycle is also set up by the end of this year.
2026: EU-wide application begins
From 12 August 2026, the regulation will become mandatory across all EU member states. This is also the year when the commission starts issuing further guidance, including on areas such as chemical substances in packaging and future compostability interpretation.
2027 to 2028: The technical framework is defined
This is the rule-setting phase. Before 12 February 2027, the commission asks the European Committee for Standardization to develop or update harmonized standards for the five pillars. By 1 January 2028, the commission is expected to adopt delegated acts that define the technical criteria and assessment methods behind the PPWR. This will shape how packaging is officially evaluated in practice, including recyclability grades, minimization rules, reuse requirements, compostability criteria, and possible treatment of biobased or innovative materials.
2029: Deposit-return systems become the norm
From 1 January 2029, member states must introduce deposit-return systems (DRS) for relevant packaging formats such as plastic beverage bottles and metal cans, unless they can prove they already achieve a 90% separate collection rate.
2030: First major compliance deadline for design for recycling
From 1 January 2030, the PPWR shifts from preparation to hard requirements. This is the first major turning point.
By then:
Packaging must be designed to use no more material than necessary
All packaging must meet minimum design-for-recycling requirements
Only packaging with at least Grade C recyclability (≥70%) can remain on the market
Plastic packaging must meet mandatory recycled content targets
Certain single-use packaging formats are banned
Reuse obligations begin to apply in practice in relevant sectors
This is the year when the PPWR starts to materially affect packaging design, format choice, and compliance documentation.
2032 to 2034: Review and adjustment phase
By 2032, the PPWR undergoes its first major review, looking at the effect of the measures already introduced and whether recyclability and recycled content rules need to be adjusted. By 1 January 2034, another review point is built in for packaging design and recyclability criteria.
2035: Recycling at scale becomes mandatory
From 1 January 2035, it will no longer be enough for packaging to be recyclable in theory. It must also be recycled at scale in real industrial systems.
That means packaging must actually be collected, sorted, and recycled through functioning infrastructure, not just pass a technical design test. This is a key shift from design for recycling to proven recycling performance.
2038: Low-recyclability packaging is phased out
From 1 January 2038, the rules tighten again:
Only Grade A (≥95%) and Grade B (≥80%) packaging may be placed on the market
Grade C packaging is no longer allowed
This is where the PPWR sharply raises the bar and pushes harder against lower-performing materials and formats.
2040: Reuse targets become much more ambitious
From 1 January 2040, reuse targets increase significantly, especially for beverage packaging and some transport and sales packaging. For beverages in particular, the reuse target rises to 40%, making reuse one of the biggest long-term structural shifts in the regulation.
Our perspective
Miron’s position on the PPWR
The PPWR mainly supports the direction Miron is already taking. Miron glass is well-positioned because it is durable, reusable, and recyclable, while the biggest improvement areas are continued lightweighting, better sorting compatibility, and especially simpler, more recyclable closures.
1. Prevention and waste reduction
The PPWR starts with a simple idea: use no more packaging than necessary, but leaves room for packaging to function as brand recognition.
For Miron glass, this is already a strong position. Glass packaging is durable and functional, and Miron designs already avoid unnecessary mass. The main opportunity is continued lightweighting and improving optical sorting detection, without compromising its premium feel or protective properties.
This pillar also goes beyond the product itself. The PPWR targets inefficiencies in transport and logistics, so reducing unnecessary empty space in secondary packaging matters too. Miron’s custom AI shipping calculator already supports this by helping reduce “shipping air,” improve pack-out, and optimize transport efficiency.
2. Reuse and refill
The PPWR pushes packaging beyond one-time use toward real reuse systems.
Miron glass fits this direction well. Customers already reuse Miron packaging because of its quality, appearance, and preservative properties. Refill models are also emerging, for example, with pouches.
The next step is making reuse more scalable. That will likely depend less on the glass itself and more on closure durability, standardization, and system readiness. In reuse and refill models, closures often become the weak point, especially pumps and pipettes that are not built for repeated long-term use.
3. Recyclability and system compatibility
This is one of the core PPWR pillars: packaging must not just be recyclable in theory, but also work in real recycling systems.
Glass is already strong here. It is infinitely recyclable, widely collected, and benefits from established European recycling infrastructure. For Miron glass, the focus is therefore not on reinventing recyclability, but on maintaining compatibility with sorting and recycling systems.
A specific point of attention is Miron’s unique light-filtering glass, which can present challenges in optical sorting. This is why current testing and validation are important, especially as the PPWR moves toward stricter real-world recycling performance requirements from 2035 onward. Labels, coatings, and component choices will also need to support this system compatibility.
4. Smarter closures and material simplification
The biggest impact of the PPWR is expected to be on plastic-heavy components such as closures, where there is more room for improvement than in glass, which already performs strongly on durability and recyclability.
Caps, pumps, pipettes, sprays, and lids are often more complex than the bottle or jar. They tend to combine multiple materials, contain more virgin plastic, and are harder to sort and recycle. This makes them a key focus area under the PPWR.
The direction of travel is clear:
simpler, more mono-material designs
better separability
less unnecessary plastic
fewer glued or mixed-material components
stronger alignment with real collection and sorting systems
Miron is already moving in this direction by optimizing its portfolio away from materials such as UREA and SAN, while working with leading European partners, and expanding more future-proof options such as wood, aluminum, mono-material designs, and non-glued liners.
5. Strategic fit with the goals of the regulation
Beyond technical compliance, Miron glass aligns well with the broader logic behind the PPWR. Miron’s mission is to restore the connection between people, product, and nature, and that fits naturally with packaging that is durable, protective, reusable, and recyclable.
The regulation increasingly rewards packaging that supports durability, reusability, recyclability, and product protection. Miron glass performs strongly across these themes. Its premium quality supports reuse, its material performs well in recycling systems, and its preservative function strengthens the case that packaging should do more than just exist prettily on a shelf.
As regulatory interpretation develops, this may create a relatively favorable position for Miron compared with more complex or lower-performing packaging formats. That does not remove the need for continuous improvement, but it does mean Miron starts from a strong place.
Key dates and milestones
PPWR timing for Miron
The PPWR entered into force in 2025 and begins applying on August 12, 2026. More detailed technical rules will be developed between 2027 and 2028. Major packaging and recycling requirements take effect in 2030, real-world recycling performance becomes important from 2035, and stricter reuse and packaging standards follow toward 2040.
2025-2026: Preparing for the New Rules
The PPWR entered into force in February 2025 and starts applying across the EU on August 12, 2026.
For Miron, this is a period of preparation and communication. Before August 12, 2026, customers will receive clear information explaining how Miron packaging aligns with the PPWR and where future changes may be expected.
2027-2028: Detailed Rules Are Developed
Between 2027 and 2028, the European Commission and standards organizations will define the detailed requirements of the PPWR.
This is when the rules behind the five pillars will become clearer.
For Miron, this means continuing to monitor developments, test solutions, and make improvements, especially in areas such as sorting compatibility, closure design, and reuse readiness.
2030: First Major Compliance Deadline
January 1, 2030 is the first major milestone. By this date, packaging must:
Use only the material needed
Meet design-for-recycling requirements
Achieve at least a Grade C recyclability rating
Meet any applicable reuse requirements
Comply with recycled-content rules for plastics, where required
For Miron glass, most of the changes are expected to affect closures and accessories rather than the glass itself.
2035: Recycling Performance Becomes Key
By 2035, packaging must do more than be recyclable by design. It must also be successfully recycled in real-world recycling systems.
For Miron, this makes compatibility with recycling systems even more important. Because Miron glass has unique light-filtering properties, it can sometimes be more difficult for optical sorting systems to detect. Ongoing testing, validation, and careful choices in labels, coatings, and components will help support strong recycling performance.
2038-2040: Higher Standards
From 2038, only higher-performing packaging grades will remain on the market. By 2040, reuse targets will become much more ambitious.
For Miron, this means continuing to:
Keep glass compatible with modern recycling systems
Make closures simpler and easier to recycle
Improve refill and reuse options where relevant
Help customers adapt with minimal disruption
What to expect
What this means for customers
For Miron customers, the impact of the PPWR is expected to be manageable. Miron glass already aligns well with the goals of the regulation because it is durable, recyclable, and suitable for reuse. As a result, most customers are not expected to face major disruptions.
Before the regulation starts on August 12, 2026, customers will get a clear statement. It will explain how their packaging meets the PPWR.
Miron is working closely with top European partners. They are creating closure solutions that are ready for the future. While some product adjustments may be needed over time, these changes are expected to be limited and carefully managed.
As the rules get clearer and 2030 gets closer, customers will get updates from their sales reps. These updates will help them make better packaging choices.
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Disclaimer
This document shows Miron’s current understanding of the PPWR as of the date below. It is for general information only and is not legal, technical, or regulatory advice.
Because some PPWR rules and guidance are still being developed, the requirements may change over time. Miron may update this document as new information becomes available.
Customers are responsible for checking what the PPWR means for their own products and packaging, and should seek independent advice if needed.
Updated: April 2026
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Questions & insights
The PPWR is a new EU packaging law. It applies to all packaging sold in the EU and aims to reduce waste, improve real-life recycling, and increase reuse over time.
It is relevant because Miron supplies packaging that is sold in the EU. If a business puts a product in packaging and sells it in the EU, the PPWR applies.
No. The law is in place, but some detailed technical rules and methods are still being developed. More guidance and technical criteria are expected between 2026 and 2028.
No. Miron glass is strongly aligned with the direction of the regulation and starts from a strong place.
The key dates are February 11, 2025, when the regulation entered into force, August 12th, 2026, when it becomes applicable across the EU, January 1, 2030, when the first major hard requirements begin, January 1, 2035, when recycling at scale becomes important, and 2038 to 2040, when the rules become stricter.
Impact on Miron Products
Miron glass is already in a strong position because it is recyclable, widely collected as colored glass in the EU, and well-suited for reuse. The biggest changes are more likely to affect closures such as caps, pumps, and pipettes. Customers are not expected to face major disruption and will be guided to alternative closures when needed.
Customers can continue using Miron dark violet glass. Miron glass is described as well aligned with the regulation, and no major disruption is expected. The main focus for improvement is more likely to be closures and accessory parts.
Compliance & Documentation
Miron’s position is strong based on its current understanding of the PPWR. Miron glass already aligns well with the law’s goals in recyclability, durability, and reuse, but some rules are still being finalized. With our leading European partners, we are also focusing on our plastic closures. We are already moving away from materials like UREA and SAN plastics and switching to options like non-glued liners. As the market adapts to the new law, we expect to offer more alternatives. We will support and guide our customers through these changes in the coming years.
Miron can already explain how its packaging aligns with the direction of the PPWR and where future changes may be expected. It can also provide a clear ‘Declaration of Conformity’ (packaging passport) before August 12, 2026.
Miron will provide customers with a clear PPWR ‘Declaration of Conformity’ (packaging passport) for their packaging before August 12, 2026.
Yes. No major changes are expected for most customers, and Miron will keep supporting customers as the rules become clearer.
Yes. Customers will be kept informed and supported by their sales representative, and Miron may update its document as new information becomes available.
Recycling & Environmental Performance
Yes, for Miron glass, this is already a strong position. Glass packaging is durable and functional, and Miron designs already avoid unnecessary mass. The main opportunity is continued lightweighting and improving optical sorting detection, without compromising its premium feel or protective properties.
Not defined yet. The official EU method and grading system are still being finalized.
Yes. Miron glass is widely collected as colored glass and recycled across Europe, though performance varies by country. One point to watch is the unique light-filtering property of Miron glass. This can make it harder for optical sorting machines to detect it. The technique is already there and will improve with AI towards the 2035 deadline.
It can be harder for sorting machines to detect due to its light-filtering properties. Some countries, like Finland, have better optical sorting machines. The technique is already there and will improve with AI towards the 2035 deadline.
Countries like Finland already have a glass recycling percentage of 98%. The technique is already there and will improve with AI towards the 2035 deadline. To help speed things up, we are testing small changes to our glass formula. The goal is to improve detectability without losing the protective function or the look of the glass.
Miron focuses on real-world performance, not just theory. Countries like Finland already have a glass recycling percentage of 98%. The technique is already there and will improve with AI towards the 2035 deadline. To help speed things up, we are testing small changes to our glass formula. The goal is to improve detectability without losing the protective function or the look of the glass.
Miron is already ahead of the curve and has been providing traceability for many years.
Materials & Regulatory Requirements
Glass does not contain PFAS. Where relevant, Miron will provide a PFAS statement before August 12, 2026, and offer alternative closure options.
Miron already has a strong position because its designs avoid unnecessary mass. It also says there is an opportunity for continued lightweighting without reducing protection, premium feel, or product preservation.
Closures & Component Design
Yes. Closures and other components are highly relevant and may face more pressure than the glass itself because they are often more complex and harder to recycle.
Miron is working on simpler, more mono-material designs, better separability, less unnecessary plastic, fewer glued parts, and better alignment with real sorting and recycling systems. It is also moving away from materials such as UREA and SAN and switching to options like non-glued liners.
Miron is monitoring, validating, and refining its packaging and working with partners on improved solutions. It also says customers will be informed and guided if product or closure adjustments are needed over time.
Guidance for Customers
Miron is monitoring the rules, validating its packaging, refining closure design, improving sorting compatibility, and working with European partners on simpler and more future-proof solutions.
Customers should consider recyclability, reuse potential, material simplicity, and closure design. They should also think about how packaging performs in real collection, sorting, and recycling systems, not just in theory. Miron can help you.
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