Key terms and definitions for EU packaging compliance under the PPWR and related regulations.
PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation)
EU Regulation 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste. Replaces Directive 94/62/EC. Introduces mandatory recycled content, minimisation, reusability, DRS, EPR, and digital product passport requiremen... Read more →
DRS (Deposit Return Scheme)
A system where consumers pay a small deposit when purchasing a beverage in a single-use container and receive the deposit back when returning the empty container. The PPWR requires all EU member state... Read more →
EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility)
A policy approach making producers financially responsible for the end-of-life management of their products and packaging. Under the PPWR, all packaging producers must register with national EPR schem... Read more →
PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled)
Post-consumer recycled (PCR) material is recycled material derived from products that have been used by consumers and collected through waste management systems. PCR plastic is the primary source of r... Read more →
DPP (Digital Product Passport)
A digital record accessible via QR code or other data carrier that provides information about a product's material composition, recycled content, recyclability, and disposal instructions. The PPWR req... Read more →
SUP (Single-Use Plastic)
Single-use plastic (SUP) products are plastic items intended to be used once or for a short period before being thrown away. The EU SUP Directive prohibits certain SUP items and the PPWR restricts unn... Read more →
Eco-Modulation
The adjustment of EPR fees based on the environmental performance of packaging. Under the PPWR, EPR fees must be eco-modulated so that packaging with higher recycled content, better recyclability, or ... Read more →
Void Space Ratio
The ratio of empty space to total packaging volume. The PPWR prohibits packaging with a void space ratio exceeding 40% for e-commerce outer packaging, targeting unnecessarily large boxes that waste ma... Read more →