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The most important developments in packaging law, ecodesign and extended producer responsibility (EPR)
Regulatory requirements in the areas of packaging law, eco-design, EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) and product labeling have increased considerably in speed and complexity over the past twelve months. Companies are faced with the challenge of keeping an eye on national and international requirements in order to avoid compliance risks. We have prepared the most important updates in our monthly newsletter. This review of the year shows which topics were particularly relevant – and why a newsletter subscription will be even more worthwhile in future.
Important EU regulations: Ecodesign, PPWR and new harmonization steps
The European Union set an important course for the circular economy in 2024 and 2025. The key topics included:
- EU Ecodesign Regulation – new requirements for sustainable product design
- Current PPWR updates and introduction of harmonized packaging labelling requirements
- Revised ecodesign and energy labels
- EU requirement for separate collection of textiles
- EU Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 with far-reaching manufacturer obligations
These EU issues are among the most important basics for companies that sell products or packaging in the EU internal market.
National developments in Europe
In addition to the EU requirements, there were numerous national changes that had a direct impact on manufacturers and retailers.
France – key innovations
France was once again one of the most dynamic regulatory markets. Important adjustments included:
- New packaging registrations for industrial and household packaging
- Introduction of a durability index
- Duty to provide information on environmental properties
- Merging the EPR streams for packaging and graphic paper
- Introduction of an environmental label for textiles
- New specifications for disposable wet wipes
- Withdrawal of the planned ban on PS packaging
Spain, Portugal and Luxembourg
Labeling and reporting obligations have also been extended in other EU countries:
- Spain: mandatory labeling for household packaging, new textile EPR from 2025, increased customs controls
- Portugal: Publication of binding guidance on packaging labeling and information requirements
- Luxembourg: Introduction of new registration requirements for industrial packaging
International developments on extended producer responsibility (EPR)
EPR is gaining in importance worldwide. Our newsletter provided information on topics including
- Canada: Further development of EPR systems
- United Kingdom: Introduction of PackUK, mandatory recycling labeling, new safety regulations
- Finland: Revised requirements for packaging and products
- Belgium: Introduction of a reparability index and new obligations for distance selling of batteries
- Netherlands: New EPR targets for textiles
EPR therefore remains a globally growing topic that also affects European exporters.
Regional developments in Central and South Eastern Europe
A particular focus was placed on countries that are gradually adapting their legislation to EU standards. These included:
- Denmark: mandatory registration for all manufacturers in future, including those from abroad
- Slovakia: Deposit system for disposable packaging
- Åland: Introduction of new EPR obligations from 2025
- Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia: Developments towards EU harmonization
- North Macedonia, Kosovo, Andorra, San Marino: Overview of existing and voluntary EPR schemes
These markets are particularly relevant for companies with a broad distribution network within Europe.
Packaging, electronics and batteries: additional operational changes
2024 and 2025 were also characterized by new requirements in the areas of product safety, labelling and EPR, including
- Extension of TRIMAN labeling requirements
- New mandatory recycling labeling
- Revised definition of “producer” under WEEE
- Introduction of the recyclability assessment methodology (RAM)
- New fee structure in the ElektroGBattGGebV
- Publication of our comprehensive guide to the new EU packaging regulation (PPWR)
These changes affected numerous sectors – from electronics and textiles to household goods.
Conclusion: A dynamic year for regulation
The past year has shown how quickly regulations in the areas of packaging law, eco-design and EPR are developing. Companies need to stay informed in order to be able to act in good time and ensure compliance. Our newsletter offers a compact, reliable and international overview of all relevant developments.
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