The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU PPWR) applies from today, 12 August 2026. While many provisions have later application dates, several requirements apply to packaging and packed products placed on the market from 12 August. Among others, these include restrictions on substances, traceability, Declaration of Conformity and Technical Documentation.
EU PPWR applies to all packaging and packed products
The EU PPWR applies to all packaging and packaging waste, independently from the materials and to the source of packaging waste, whether originating from industry, other manufacturing, retail or distribution activities, offices, services or households. This includes packaging of cosmetics and beauty products.
Also in case of packed cosmetic products, beauty brands are subject to the following obligations:
- Article 5: Requirements for substances in packaging
- Article 6: Recyclable packaging
- Article 7: Minimum recycled content in plastic packaging
- Article 8: Biobased feedstock in plastic packaging
- Article 9: Compostable packaging
- Article 10: Packaging minimisation
- Article 11: Reusable packaging
- Article 12: Labelling of packaging
From 12 August 2026, manufacturers of packed goods and packaging must have the relevant Technical Documentation and Declaration of Conformity issued under the EU PPWR.
Packaging of cosmetics can fall under the definition of “contact-sensitive packaging” and be subject to a few different rules under certain circumstances. However, cosmetics fall within the scope of the EU PPWR and manufacturers of packed cosmetics are subject to the obligations of manufacturers described above.
Read more on the EU PPWR
EU PPWR: timeline and key provisions applicable in 2026
EU PPWR: new EU Packaging Regulation from August 2026
Are recycling symbols mandatory in the EU?
For any PPWR questions or support, contact us here or at coslaw@obelis.net.
References:
European Commission (2025). Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC. Retrieved on 03/03/2026.
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