The general application of the PPWR, i.e. Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste, begins on 12 August 2026. However, this does not mean that all the requirements of the Regulation must be met immediately, in full and in every detail from that date.

The central message of the presentation was that the introduction of the PPWR is a gradual process.

Many detailed rules are still being prepared for the implementation of the PPWR: the PPWR sets out a significant number of further tasks for the Commission, e.g. it has to set up an observatory on reuse, or define harmonised labelling requirements.

The Regulation therefore applies from 12 August 2026, but the development of the full implementation framework will continue after that date.

From 12 August 2026, only a very limited set of rules becomes directly applicable, namely:

1. Declaration of conformity

For food contact products: demonstrating compliance with the PFAS and heavy metal limit values (declaration of conformity and laboratory tests)

2. Identification of the packaging and provision of the manufacturer’s details

Article 15(5) and (6) of the PPWR, under which the manufacturer must ensure that the type, batch or serial number or other element identifying the packaging is specified. According to the presentation, during the introductory period it may be particularly justified to provide this information not directly on the packaging, but in a document accompanying the packaged product.

3. Transposing the new “producer” concept into EPR schemes

The PPWR introduces a new concept of “producer” linked to extended producer responsibility. According to the Commission, the transition to the new concept has to be ensured within the Member States’ EPR schemes. In Hungarian usage it is particularly important to distinguish between the manufacturer (előállító), who is responsible for the conformity of the packaging, and the producer (gyártó), to whom the EPR registration, reporting and financing obligations apply. The two are not always the same party.

Sustainability and social responsibility are very important parts of our company’s strategy. This endeavor offers innovative solutions that contribute to reducing negative impacts on the environment. Responsible use can be based on the use of alternative feedstocks, reuse and recycling. We consider it our priority mission to take an active part in the implementation of Hungary’s environmental protection efforts by influencing fixed customer habits and trends, and by integrating a new customer culture.