PPWR – New Rules for Packaging in Europe

What the New EU Packaging Regulation Means for Swiss Companies

New Rules for Packaging

Less packaging waste, improved recyclability, and more efficient use of materials: this is precisely where the new European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) comes in.

Since 12 August 2026, the Regulation has generally been applicable throughout the European Union. Further key requirements will follow in the coming years. So now is the time to take a closer look at your packaging.

What is the PPWR?

The PPWR replaces the previous European Packaging Directive and establishes harmonised rules for packaging across the EU.

The goal is to reduce packaging waste, use resources more efficiently, and keep materials in circulation for longer. To achieve this, the PPWR introduces new requirements for packaging design – from recyclability to the use of materials and packaging volume.

Less Material

As much packaging as necessary, using as little material as possible.

Optimised for: Corrugated Board Inlight

Improved Recyclability

Recyclability considered right from the start.

Optimised for: Corrugated Board Quote

Less Empty Space

A precise fit to minimise unused space.

Optimised for: Volume Box / Volume Product

And What Does This Mean for Switzerland?

Switzerland is not a member of the EU. Therefore, the PPWR does not directly apply to packaging that is placed exclusively on the Swiss market.

However, it becomes relevant for Swiss companies as soon as packaging or packaged products are placed on the EU market. The specific obligations that apply depend, among other factors, on the company’s role within the supply chain.

For companies doing business in the EU, it is therefore advisable to assess at an early stage which products and packaging are affected.

Roles under the PPWR

Depending on a company’s role within the supply chain, different obligations apply. For our company and our customers, the following three roles are particularly relevant:

What Is Changing – and When?

2026: PPWR becomes applicable – initial material and information requirements
2027: Producer registration
2028: Requirements for compostability, reuse & labelling
2029: Reusable packaging labelling, including via QR code
2030: Design for Recycling & max. 50% empty space
2031: First reporting requirements
2035: Recyclability at scale
2038: Recyclability ≥ 80%
2040: Higher recycled content & reuse targets, in some cases 70% reuse

Thinking About Tomorrow – Today

Even though some details are still being finalised, companies can already take action today: reduce material use, minimise empty space, and consider recyclability from the very beginning.

One thing is clear: cardboard alone does not automatically make packaging PPWR-compliant. What matters is the packaging as a whole – from its design and materials to its components and specific application.

For us at Model, the PPWR therefore means one thing above all: developing packaging today that is as efficient and resource-conscious as possible.

Our E-Com Box: Less Material, More Flexibility

Our E-Com Box shows what this can look like in practice. Made from 100% recyclable corrugated board, it features integrated height creases that allow it to be flexibly adapted to different product sizes. A clever securing design keeps the products safely in place.

This results in less empty space and a reduced need for additional cushioning material – in some cases, it can even be eliminated entirely.

This is particularly relevant for e-commerce: under the PPWR, certain e-commerce, transport and grouped packaging will be subject to a maximum empty space ratio of 50% in the future.

Our M-Fold: A Precise Fit and Resource-Efficient

M-Fold takes this approach one step further: the continuous corrugated board can be flexibly adapted to different product sizes and shapes. This creates right-sized packaging with less empty space and reduced material use – key considerations in the context of the PPWR.

At the same time, the M-Fold design enables space-saving storage and more efficient use of transport capacity. The continuous corrugated board is also suitable for automated packaging processes and is made from 100% recycled fibres. In this way, M-Fold combines flexibility, resource efficiency and recyclability in a single packaging solution.

Explore M-Fold

Well Prepared – Together

The PPWR is changing the requirements for packaging in Europe. At the same time, it offers an opportunity to rethink existing solutions: with less material, less unnecessary volume and improved recyclability.

We support our customers in analysing their existing packaging and developing new solutions with future requirements in mind.

Would you like to know what the PPWR means for your packaging? Get in touch with us – we’ll be happy to advise you.

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