What’s new at a glance
- Extended Producer Responsibility with EU-wide core rules and fee modulation based on design performance.
- Directly applicable regulation replacing Directive 94/62/EC. Less divergent national implementation than before.
- Design-for-recycling requirements and recyclability performance grades (supporting data for EPR fee modulation).
- Recycled‑content targets for plastics (data tracked alongside EPR reporting).
- Reuse and refill obligations in selected sectors; align with EPR roles and reporting.
- Harmonised sorting labels and material IDs; digital access where required.
- Waste prevention measures and reduction targets for specific packaging categories.
- Authorised representative required where producers are not established in a Member State.
Key dates you should bookmark
| When | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Entry into force | 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU. |
| Start of application | Most obligations apply 18 months after entry into force; selected labelling, design, and reuse rules phase in later. |
| 2026–2028 | Phased start of harmonised labels and sorting marks. Updated EPR reporting formats and data requirements. |
| 2030 | First recycled-content targets for plastic packaging. Initial reuse obligations in specific sectors. |
| 2040 | Higher recycled-content targets and expanded reuse requirements based on review clauses. |
What is in scope
All packaging placed on the EU market, across materials and sectors: household, commercial, industrial, transport and e-commerce packaging. Obligations apply to manufacturers, importers, distributors and online platforms that place packaged goods on the EU market.
Your EPR track in four steps
1) Confirm producer role & appoint AR
Determine producer status per Member State and appoint an authorised representative where you are not established or sell at distance.
2) Register & onboard with PROs
Complete producer registration with the competent authorities and enroll with the correct PROs for each packaging stream.
3) Build data for reporting & fee modulation
Structure weights, materials and formats to support placed‑on‑market reporting, recyclability grades and modulated fees.
4) Operate reporting & payments
Run submissions and payments on schedule; track design and label changes that impact EPR data.
How viron can help
We verify roles, AR needs and countries in scope, then map the PPWR obligations that apply to you.
We obtain producer IDs with authorities, onboard you with PROs and appoint ARs where required.
We structure weights, materials and formats so you can evidence reporting and optimise modulated fees.
We translate recyclability and format rules into concrete label/spec updates for teams.
We run deadlines, submissions and payments with authorities and PROs end to end.
Talk to us
If you want a quick check of what applies to you and where to start, we can review your situation and suggest next steps. No commitment required. For the fastest response, reach out to our dedicated EPR contact:
This article summarises selected obligations of the EU Packaging Regulation. It is not legal advice.