PPWR: How the New European Packaging Regulation Affects Your Business
Since 12 August 2026, the European PPWR has been in force in all EU Member States.
It introduces new requirements regarding the recyclability, reusability and reduction of packaging waste.
For more than 60 years, No-Nail Boxes has been designing customised industrial packaging solutions aligned with these principles. Here is how we help you meet and go beyond your regulatory obligations.
What is the PPWR?
The PPWR, or Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, is a European regulation that replaces the former Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, known as the PPWD.
Unlike a directive, a European regulation applies directly in all Member States without requiring national transposition. This leads to greater harmonisation and more consistent obligations across the European Union.
Adopted in 2025, the PPWR establishes an ambitious framework based on three main priorities:
→ Reducing the amount of packaging placed on the market
→ Improving the recyclability of all packaging
→ Developing reuse and the use of recycled materials
What does this mean in practice for industrial packaging?
The PPWR applies to all packaging placed on the European market, including industrial and transport packaging.
Here are the main points to remember:
1. Recyclability becomes mandatory
By 2030, all packaging will have to be recyclable. This requirement means that packaging must be designed from the outset to facilitate sorting, collection and recycling at the end of its life.
2. Reuse is encouraged
The regulation sets reuse targets for certain categories of packaging. Reusable solutions are clearly favoured over single-use packaging.
3. Packaging minimisation
The PPWR introduces minimisation requirements. Empty space within packaging must not exceed a certain threshold, while weight and volume must be reduced to what is strictly necessary.
4. Traceability and labelling
New labelling and traceability obligations are planned, particularly to inform users about the nature of the materials used and the appropriate sorting procedures.
Our PPWR-ready solutions
Recyclable materials
Our foldable crates are made from plywood and steel, two materials that are recyclable at the end of their service life.
Wood can be recovered for energy or material recycling, while steel can be returned to the steelmaking industry. No component ends up in landfill.
Foldable and reusable packaging
Our foldable crates are reusable and can reduce empty volume by up to 85%. This directly addresses the PPWR requirements relating to reusability and the limitation of empty space.
Custom design for optimised filling
Each crate is precisely sized to the product being packaged. This eliminates unnecessary empty space and reduces the need for additional cushioning materials.
PPWR compliance is considered from the design stage onwards.
Export and regulatory compliance
No-Nail Boxes is certified to ISO 14001 and PEFC standards and received the EcoVadis Bronze Medal in 2026.
Our packaging complies with NIMP15 / ISPM15 requirements for the phytosanitary treatment of wood, as well as UN/DG requirements for dangerous goods and international customs requirements.
These certifications demonstrate a serious and consistent environmental approach, aligned with the requirements of the new regulatory framework.
What we are doing to stay ahead
The PPWR is being implemented progressively, with deadlines extending through 2030 and beyond.
At No-Nail Boxes, we are actively working to:
→ Monitor the development of implementing legislation and associated technical standards
→ Anticipate new requirements relating to labelling and traceability
→ Strengthen our CSR approach to stay ahead of future obligations
→ Advise you on the solutions best suited to your situation
The PPWR marks a major shift for the packaging industry. For companies that have already chosen durable, reusable and recyclable solutions, it represents more of a recognition of good practices than an additional constraint.
Our QHSE Manager, David Hinck, is available to support you.
👉 Contact David Hinck: dhinck@nnb.lu
👉 Or contact your usual representative at No-Nail Boxes, who will direct you to the information you need.