New packaging regulation

At the end of 2022, the European Commission presented a proposal for a new packaging regulation, which aims to reduce the amount of packaging waste and increase the recycling of packaging.

This regulation is a binding EU law that applies directly in all member states, which means that Danish companies must pay particular attention to the new requirements.

All packaging is included

What is packaging?

• An article – regardless of the material from which it is made – that is intended to be used by a trader for the packaging, protection, handling, delivery or presentation of products to another trader or to an end user.

Important changes and requirements

1. Limiting unnecessary packaging: There will be stricter rules on how much empty space is allowed in packaging, to prevent the use of unnecessary packaging. Empty space must be a maximum of 50%. 
2. Increased demand for recycled material: From 2030, plastic packaging must contain a minimum percentage of recycled material, and this requirement will become even stricter in 2040.
3. Ban on certain single-use packaging: From 2030, the use of specific single-use plastic packaging will be banned. This includes, for example, the small shampoo bottles found in some hotels and packaging for fruit and vegetables.
4. Recycling and refilling: By 2027, takeaway cafes and restaurants must allow customers to bring their own containers for food and drinks.
5. Food contact: From August 12, 2026, packaging with food contact must not contain PFAS.

What does this mean for your business?

For companies, this means the new packaging regulation, that a number of new requirements and standards must be taken into account. It is important to be up to date on the specific regulations and ensure that your packaging meets the new requirements for recyclability and compostability. In addition, companies must be prepared to adapt their packaging practices to avoid unnecessary packaging and comply with the new environmental standards.

Reusable packaging

• Manufacturers must assess the recyclability of packaging
• Criteria will come no later than 2028 and 2030
• Categories are similar to those in the Danish executive order.
• Performance requirements must be met from 2030 and will be tightened in 2038.

Compostable packaging

• From February 12, 2028, compostable packaging must be designed so that they do not damage or affect the recyclability of waste streams.
• From February 12, 2028, stickers on fruit and vegetables must be compostable.

Reusable packaging

• A number of requirements have been listed that must be met if you want to claim that packaging is recyclable.
• If you claim that the packaging is recyclable, this must be documented in technical information.

Marking

• By 12 August 2028 at the latest, packaging must be marked with a harmonised mark indicating the material composition.
• The harmonised labelling must be on waste bins
• Adopted no later than August 12, 2026
• Compostable packaging must be labeled with:
  • That it can be composted
  • That it should not be composted at home
  • That it must not be thrown into nature
• Problematic substances must be labeled digitally
• Reusable packaging must be marked as recyclable.
• Further information about collection points, recycling systems and the like can be provided electronically.

Overpackaging

• Sales packaging from February 12, 2028
• Empty space should be as small as possible
• Multipack, e-commerce and transport packaging from 12 February 2030
• Empty space must be a maximum of 50%
• Ban on single-use plastic packaging.

Recycling goals

• From 2030, there will be a requirement that part of the packaging must be recyclable.
• A minimum of 40% of transport and sales packaging must be recycled.

Do you need help?

At Mediator, we are ready to help your business navigate the new regulations and ensure you are well-equipped for the future. Contact us for more information and advice on how to best adapt to the new packaging regulation.