EU delays PPWR labeling rules to second quarter of 2027

EUROPE – The European Commission has pushed back the implementation of updated labeling rules under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation to the second quarter of 2027, confirming that the adoption process will include a public consultation.

The regulation lays down EU-wide rules on labels for packaging and waste receptacles, including measures to help consumers sort packaging waste, identify reusable packaging and packaging covered by deposit return systems, and indicate recycled and bio-based content. 

To ensure uniform implementation, the Commission intends to adopt implementing rules on harmonised pictograms and labeling specifications. 

The Commission’s Joint Research Centre published its proposed harmonised waste-sorting label system in January, adopting a material-based approach.

OPRL Welcomes Consultation on Labeling System

On Pack Recycling Label, a UK-based non-profit certification scheme for environmental labeling, welcomed the move while calling for additional clarity on implementation. 

Jude Allan, managing director of On Pack Recycling Label, said that with the regulation now underway, the organisation was keen to advise members on new labeling requirements.

Allan added that the priority was to implement the most effective system, so the organisation appreciated the need for consultation on how the labeling proposal would work. 

On Pack Recycling Label said its scheme is used by over 750 members, including Amazon EU, Aldi UK, Aptar, Amcor, Carlsberg, Constantia Flexibles, Coveris, Huhtamaki and Unilever.

Producers Face Tight Two-Year Compliance Window

The organisation expressed concern over packaging producers having only two years to ensure correct labeling once the implementation act comes into play in 2027. 

It pointed out that these changes would take place alongside a phased shift to recyclable formats and recycled-content requirements. 

Allan said the two-year window for changing label designs would be extremely challenging, especially for producers with extensive product ranges. 

He noted that it remained unclear whether the deadline referred to packaging on shelf or in production, but that the organisation was advising members to start preparing as soon as possible.

UK and Northern Ireland Alignment Anticipated

On Pack Recycling Label expects UK businesses to face challenges when trading in the EU in relation to expanding rules on labeling, including secondary and tertiary packaging. 

Under the terms of the Windsor Framework, businesses trading in Northern Ireland are expected to apply the regulation’s labels. 

Allan said that once the EU finalised its labeling system, the UK would follow to define its own system, and it was anticipated that UK packaging extended producer responsibility labels would align with the EU. 

He noted that while labeling changes brought complexities for producers, they also represented a significant adjustment for consumers.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE