Glass packaging, particularly glass beverage bottles, is a key focus of the PPWR's reusability targets and deposit return scheme requirements. Glass is infinitely recyclable and has a high recycled content in most EU markets, but faces challenges in reusability due to weight and logistics costs.
Reusability Targets for Glass Bottles
The PPWR sets reusability targets for glass beverage bottles in the food service sector. By 2030, 20% of beverages served in the food service sector must be in reusable packaging (including glass). By 2040, this rises to 80%. These targets apply to restaurants, cafes, bars, and other food service operators.
Deposit Return Schemes
While the PPWR's mandatory DRS scope covers plastic bottles and metal cans, member states may extend DRS to glass bottles. Several countries including Germany, Denmark, and Sweden already include glass bottles in their DRS. The PPWR encourages member states to include glass in DRS where it improves collection rates and recycled content.
Recycled Content
The PPWR does not set mandatory recycled content thresholds for glass packaging (unlike plastic). However, glass manufacturers are encouraged to maximise cullet (recycled glass) content. Most EU glass manufacturers already use 50–80% cullet in their production. The EU Glass Packaging Institute (GPI) has committed to 90% recycled content by 2030.