What does the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) mean for your packaging and labelling process?

As a specialist in weighing, pricing and labeling solutions, Tegra Systems sees every day how closely packaging, labels and labeling are connected to production, packaging and distribution processes. With the introduction of the new PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), there is increased attention for you as a producer or packaging/labeling partner regarding how you use, register and manage packaging. In this blog, we outline the most important changes for you and look not only at the impact on the packaging itself, but especially at what is changing in the field of labels and labeling.

What is the PPWR and when does it take effect?

The PPWR is European legislation that adjusts, expands and tightens the existing framework for packaging and packaging waste. The regulation entered into force on 12 February 2025. The obligations will be introduced gradually from August 2026, and some elements will continue into 2029 and beyond.

The goal: to address the entire lifecycle of packaging (from design → use → reuse/recycling) and to create equal rules across the EU.

Relevant for you: what changes for packaging, but also for labels and labeling?

There are several specific points of attention for your packaging and labeling process:

1. Packaging will be defined differently

The old classification (primary / secondary / tertiary) will largely disappear. The PPWR defines specific categories such as “packaging,” “shipping packaging,” “service packaging,” “e-commerce packaging,” etc.

For your labels, this means that the packaging containing the product, the shipping packaging and the service packaging (such as takeaway cups, carrier bags) will be examined more critically. As a result, labels must match specific packaging types and comply with the new rules.

2. Responsibilities in the supply chain become clearer

Producers, importers, suppliers and distributors all have specific roles under the PPWR.

If you work as a packaging/labeling partner, determine which role you fulfill (manufacturer of packaging? or solely supplier of labels?). This will determine which obligations apply to you.

3. New requirements for data & conformity

From 2027, producers/importers must be able to provide a declaration of conformity: confirming that a packaging complies with all relevant requirements.

In addition, companies are expected to collect more detailed data about their packaging: material types, percentages of recycled content, weight, composition, etc.

For labels, this means that the information you apply on labels (material type, recycling information, pictograms) must be integrated into this data chain.

4. Labeling requirements and pictograms

From 2030, every packaging item must feature a label or pictogram indicating its composition for waste sorting.

This has a direct impact on labeling: you must be prepared for your labels to indicate which material the packaging is made of or how it should be recycled. QR codes may also need to be added.

5. Recyclability and reuse become mandatory

• Packaging that is less than 70% recyclable by weight may no longer be placed on the market after 2030.
• A mandatory percentage of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content will apply to plastic packaging from 2030 onward.
• At least 40% of (transport) packaging must be reusable by 2030.

For labels, this means that the components (the label itself, the adhesive, the liner) must also be critically reviewed: are they recyclable, and do they fit within the required reuse cycle? You can proactively adapt your labeling solution accordingly.

Practical tips for your organization

Start your inventory on time

Identify: which roles do you fulfill? Which types of packaging do you use (in the new terminology)? What data do you already have available for your packaging/labels, and what is missing?

Ensure your labeling solution is future-proof

You may need to add new pictograms, QR codes or information to your labels. At Tegra Systems, we are happy to help with suitable print-/labeling solutions that are flexible for changing laws and regulations.

Collaborate with your suppliers and customers for data flow

According to the PPWR, suppliers must provide relevant data, including material type, composition and recycled content. Therefore, for packaging/labeling suppliers: ensure your supply chain is ready to exchange this information.

Optimize label materials

Consider labels that are easy to separate or suitable for recycling and reuse. When choosing new packaging/labeling solutions, keep the 2030 requirements (reusability, recyclability) in mind.

Communicate internally & externally

Internally: involve your production, packaging, quality and logistics teams. Externally: ensure clarity toward customers or clients about how you comply with the new regulations and what this means for labels and labeling.

Use Tegra Systems as your sparring partner

We can assist you in implementing labeling and print solutions that comply with PPWR requirements, from printing new pictograms to label software that supports material data throughout the supply chain.

In conclusion

The PPWR brings significant changes to your packaging and labeling processes. It is not only a matter of waste management but directly affects the labels, material choices and data flows you use. By taking action now, you stay ahead of competitors and prevent disruptions later.

At Tegra Systems, we are ready to support you, whether it's labeling solutions, label materials or integration with production and packaging processes. Let’s work together to ensure your labels are ready for the future!

Do you have questions or would you like an introductory meeting? Feel free to contact us.