A quick recap: What is the PPWR?

The Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is a European Union regulation to reduce waste and help build a circular economy for packaging. It will soon apply throughout EU member states, as well as for packaging imported into the EU. It applies to all packaging (not just plastics). This new legislation will:

• Set targets for recycling and reducing packaging waste
• Set deadlines for packaging to be designed for recycling (recycle-ready)
• Set “eco-modulation” criteria for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes that will reward brands for using more sustainable packaging
• Set mandatory targets for the use of Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) content in plastic and other types of packaging

In short, this means pet care packaging will need to be recyclable by design and in practice, and that brands will need to incorporate more post-consumer recycled (PCR) content into their plastic packaging.

What are the PPWR recyclability requirements for pet care packaging?

The PPWR will require:

• All packaging to comply with Design for Recycling criteria, to be defined in further legislation
• All packaging in the EU to be recyclable by 2030
• Extended Producer Responsibility fees paid by businesses will be based on recyclability performance grades, ranging from A to C

The PPWR will roll out in stages, this timeline explains the requirements further, including deadlines:

Are recycle-ready Pet Food packaging solutions Aaailable?

Yes, companies like Amcor are already providing recycle-ready packaging solutions for pet food, treats and pet care products. In 2018, Amcor committed to developing all our packaging to be recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025 and we're well on our way. In fiscal year 2024, 94% of our global flexible packaging portfolio has a recycle-ready solution available.

For dry food and treats, our AmPrima® recycle-ready solutions offer the barrier, material stiffness, seal strength, graphics performance, and fast run speeds that match traditional, unrecyclable pet care packaging.

When it comes to wet pet food, several years back we launched the world’s first recycle-ready, flexible retort pouch, AmLite® HeatFlex Recycle-Ready. This high barrier, high heat-resistant, award-winning packaging made it possible for wet pet food pouches to be recycled. What’s more, the innovative mono-PP pouch can be recycled within existing PP recycling streams in several European countries.

How much PCR content is required for Pet Food packaging?

For contact-sensitive flexible packaging made from plastic, such as pet food packaging, the PPWR mandates:
• 10% PCR content by 2030
• 25% PCR content by 2040, calculated per manufacturing plant on an annual basis.

Our packaging solutions can include varying amounts of PCR content to improve your sustainability metrics and reduce the carbon footprint of your packaging. For example, our AmFiniti(tm) options for recycled content deliver the full breadth of mechanically recycled and advanced recycled materials to fit your pacakging needs. Our solutions are ready to run seamlessly on your current lines, designed to protect even the most demanding food-grade applications.

Are more sustainable packaging materials safe for storing pet food?

Yes. Recyclable materials offer the same protection and shelf life as conventional packaging when it comes to food safety for pets. Amcor’s recyclable solutions meet food safety standards without compromising on quality.

What about aluminum pet food packaging?

Under the EU's PPWR, aluminum trays will remain a recognized packaging solution, as long as they meet certain requirements. Aluminum trays are popular due to their ability to preserve the freshness and flavor of wet pet food, while being easy to recycle. In fact, aluminum can be recycled repeatedly without losing its intrinsic material properties.

Amcor’s recycle-ready Aluminum Container provides excellent shelf life with a premium look for on-shelf appeal. With its high seal integrity and protective barrier against gas, moisture, aroma, and light, products are kept flavorful and fresh. The Aluminum Container is also light weight, leading to transport savings, as well as lower EPR fees.

What fees should brands expect in terms of EPR eco-modulation?

The PPWR requires that, as of 2030, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees will be eco-modulated based on recyclability performance grades from A to C (the better the grade, the lower the fee), and possibly on the basis of PCR content. In a nutshell, packaging that contains PCR content could have lower EPR fees. However, the PPWR does not establish the actual fees, which will continue to be set by each EU country.

Where do you start when looking to switch to more sustainable packaging?

To meet PPWR requirements, it's essential to start planning now. Our team of experienced packaging experts will help you design the perfect pet care pack. And we make switching over easy with Amcor’s Field Technical Services team. They are ready to help you run trials and seamlessly transition to more sustainable pet care packaging. Our team can provide tailored solutions to ensure that your packaging meets both performance and regulatory standards with minimal disruption to your business.

If you’re ready to make your pet care packaging PPWR-compliant, reach out to learn how Amcor can help.

Want to stay ahead of upcoming European packaging regulations? Download our European Regulatory Guide & Timeline for highlights on the latest legislation and how you can get your packaging ready.