On 24 April 2024, the new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) was approved, set to come into effect on 1 January 2030. This regulation presents a challenge for all companies in the packaging production chain, particularly those in the food & beverage sector, and specifically for Italian companies. The final approval was passed with 476 votes in favour, 129 against, and 24 abstentions. No Italian MEP voted against the measure. Among those in favour were Italian MEPs from Ecr (Fratelli d’Italia), Ppe (Forza Italia), S&D (Pd), and M5S.
1. Plastic Packaging: Problem or Opportunity?
Packaging represents a rapidly growing industry directly linked to the consumption, production, and distribution of all types of goods. However, this sector is also a potential source of waste and contributes to the production of plastic, a material from which we have long sought to break free. Nevertheless, plastic continues to dominate the packaging market due to its industrial advantages.
1.1 The Packaging Market
In 2018, the packaging industry generated a revenue of €355 billion in the EU, with production increasing from 66 million tonnes in 2009 to 84 million tonnes in 2021. In 2021, each European citizen produced an average of 188.7 kg of packaging waste, a figure expected to rise to 209 kg by 2030 without new corrective measures.
1.2 Sector Growth in Italy
In Italy, the packaging sector is expected to grow by approximately 2% by 2026. Rigid plastic, rigid metal, and paper dominate the market, with plastic holding 36.4% of the market and an estimated growth of 2.3% by 2026. This trend is mainly attributable to the advantages offered by plastic, such as low cost and light weight.
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1.3 Towards a Circular Economy
However, new European legislative measures aim to reduce waste and promote the circular economy. Within five years, EU countries must ensure the separate collection of at least 90% of single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage containers. The goal is to achieve more sustainable waste management.
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1.4 Impact on the Italian Industry
The Italian plastic industry, a leader in recycling, must carefully evaluate the key points of the new regulation, considering also the exemptions that could mitigate the impact of the new rules.
2. What the New EU Packaging Regulation Entails
The new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) introduces measures covering the entire life cycle of packaging, aiming to reduce waste and promote reuse and recycling. Below are the main details of the regulation.
2.1 Reduction of Packaging
The regulation sets packaging reduction targets of 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040. Producers and importers must ensure that the weight and volume of packaging are minimised.
2.2 Ban on Single-Use Plastic Packaging
From 1 January 2030, certain single-use plastic packaging will be banned, including:
- Packaging for fresh, unprocessed fruits and vegetables
- Packaging for food and drinks consumed on-site
- Single-portion packaging for condiments, sauces, coffee creamers, and sugar
- Small single-use packaging used in hotels
- Ultra-lightweight plastic bags under 15 microns
2.3 Promotion of Reuse
Specific reuse targets have been set for packaging of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, multi-packaging, and sales and transport packaging. End distributors must offer consumers the option to use reusable containers.
2.4 Improvement of Recycling
All packaging must be recyclable according to strict criteria. Additionally, targets for minimum recycled content in plastic packaging and minimum recycling targets for packaging waste will be introduced.
2.5 Exemptions
The regulation provides exemptions for certain packaging and conditions:
- Compostable plastic that is correctly collected
- Processed fruits and vegetables
- Composite packaging with at least 95% paper
- Exclusions for flexible packaging in contact with food, transport of hazardous goods, large machinery, and cardboard.
State exemptions are provided for countries that exceed certain recycling and waste reduction parameters. Micro-enterprises and small operators with limited sales area or annual waste production may also benefit from exemptions.
3. Reactions from Politics and Industry Operators
Reactions from European and Italian politics and industry operators were swift following the approval.
3.1 Impact on the Italian Industry
The Italian plastic and packaging industry will now face radical challenges. Italy, a leader in recycling with 71.5% of waste recycled, will now need to adapt to a regulation that prioritises reuse. This will entail significant changes in industrial processes and the management of separate waste collection.