New EU Packaging and Waste Regulation Shifts Focus to Reuse

• The new EU Packaging and Waste Regulation (PPWR) has entered into force, prioritizing waste prevention and reuse over recycling.
• Legally binding targets aim to reduce packaging waste per capita by 5% by 2030, 10% by 2035, and 15% by 2040, compared to 2018 levels.
• Starting in 2027, food and beverage outlets must accept customer-provided reusable containers for take-away services without extra charges or conditions.

Key Regulatory Changes

• Limits on excessive packaging, mandates for full recyclability, and increased minimum recycled plastic content.
• Unified EU-wide labeling system to clearly identify materials, disposal methods, and reusability.
• By 2028, all packaging must be fully recyclable; by 2030, large retailers must dedicate 10% of space to refill options, and single-use mini-portions will be banned.

Implementation Challenges in Spain

• Spain must implement a Deposit, Return, and Return System (SDDR) by November 22, 2026, to meet EU-mandated collection targets.
• The Madrid regional government has been criticized for delaying the authorization process for four companies—including Ecoembes and AECOC-linked entities—that applied to manage the SDDR.
• Environmental groups warn this administrative bottleneck threatens Spain's ability to reach the EU's 90% separate collection goal for beverage containers by 2029.
• Advocates argue the regulation marks the end of the single-use era, shifting the focus to a circular economy model that has already seen over 90% recovery rates in other European countries.