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PPWR & Cosmetic Packaging

EU PACKAGING REGULATION

New EU packaging rules are here. Understand what is changing, when it happens and what it means for your cosmetic and personal care packaging.


What Is Changing ↓ Download PPWR Guide ↗


THE ESSENTIALS

What is changing?

PPWR introduces new requirements for packaging placed on the EU market, with five key areas particularly relevant to cosmetic and personal care packaging.

01

Recyclability

Packaging will progressively need to meet EU Design for Recycling requirements and recyclability performance criteria.

Bottle + Pump + Closure + Label

02

Recycled Content 

Minimum recycled-content requirements apply to relevant plastic packaging, including specific requirements for contact-sensitive packaging.

PET 30%*

Other plastics 10%*

03

Packaging Minimisation 

Packaging must be designed to reduce its weight and volume to the minimum necessary to ensure functionality.

04

Labelling 

Harmonised EU labelling requirements provide information on packaging material composition and support correct waste sorting.

05

Documentation

Technical documentation, conformity assessment, *Application dates, methodology, conditions and exemptions under PPWR apply.traceability and the EU Declaration of Conformity form part of the new PPWR framework.

*Application dates, methodology, conditions and exemptions under PPWR apply.


Need the legal detail?

Our detailed PPWR Guide covers requirements, dates, thresholds, responsibilities and official EU references.

Open PPWR Guide ↗  


COSMETIC PACKAGING

Think beyond the container.

PPWR means looking at more than just the bottle or jar.



The complete packaging configuration can influence recyclability.




KEY DATES

When does it happen?


2025

PPWR entered into force.


2026

 PPWR generally applies.


2030+

 Design for Recycling · Recycled Content · Packaging Minimisation.


2035+

  Recycled at Scale.


2038

Minimum Grade B.


2040

Higher recycled-content targets.

WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW

Start preparing your packaging.

You do not need to redesign everything today. Packaging developed now may still be on the market when stricter PPWR requirements apply.

04

Reduce Unnecessary Complexity

Review whether material use, weight, volume or the number of components can be reduced without compromising packaging functionality.

05

Collect Documentation

Build reliable technical information for your packaging and its components.

01

Know Your Materials

Identify the materials used in each packaging component.

02

Review the Complete Package

Consider the container, pump, closure, label and decoration together.

03

Check Your PCR Options

Explore technically suitable recycled-content options for your plastic packaging.


GLOBAL PACKAGING

How can we support your project?

We help customers consider PPWR requirements during packaging development — before the final packaging solution is selected.

Material Selection

PET · PP · PE · HDPE · Glass
Explore suitable materials and packaging constructions for your project.

PCR Options

Explore available post-consumer recycled material solutions with our manufacturing partners.

Design for Recycling

Consider recyclability during packaging development and component selection.

Packaging Optimisation

Review material use, packaging weight, volume and complexity while maintaining required functionality.

Documentation Support

Coordinate available technical specifications, material information and supporting documentation with manufacturing partners.

Custom Development

Consider PPWR requirements alongside design, functionality, compatibility, decoration, MOQ and cost.


GLOBAL PACKAGING KNOWLEDGE

Want to know more?

Our detailed PPWR Guide provides a more comprehensive overview of Regulation (EU) 2025/40 for cosmetic and personal care packaging.

Recyclability · Design for Recycling · PCR · Minimisation · Labelling · Documentation · EPR · Key Dates

Download PPWR Guide ↗


OFFICIAL EU INFORMATION

Read the official sources.

For complete regulatory information and the latest requirements, refer directly to official European Union sources.

Regulation (EU) 2025/40

View on EUR-Lex ↗.

European Commission — Packaging & Packaging Waste

View European Commission information ↗

European Commission — PPWR Guidance

View Official Guidance ↗


DEVELOPING NEW PACKAGING?

Let's prepare for what's next.

We can help you explore packaging options with future PPWR requirements in mind.

Contact Global Packaging → 



Regulatory Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, regulatory or compliance advice.

Regulation (EU) 2025/40 contains requirements with different application dates, exemptions and provisions dependent on delegated and implementing acts. Requirements applicable to a specific packaging solution may depend on its material, format, intended use, market and the economic operator's role in the supply chain.

Customers remain responsible for determining and fulfilling the regulatory requirements applicable to their products and packaged goods.