EU PPWR and GRS Polyethylene(PE): What Do You Need to Know?

The publication of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation marks a major shift in circularity for packaging across Europe, the most transformative legislation in decades. It aims to create a circular economy based on the principles of recovery, reuse and sustainable innovation.

As part of the Green Deal, this groundbreaking legislation sets Europe-wide standards for a sustainable packaging economy. Gozen Packaging offers tailor-made solutions to support brands in preparing for the new regulation.

What is the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)?

The new Packaging Regulations (PPWR) evolved from the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD) introduced in 1994. Due to the ongoing increase in waste and the fragmented national rules created barriers for brands and producer, the PPWD was reexamined, leading to the development of the PPWR.

This regulation applies to all packaging and packaging waste on the EU market. Its core element is the obligation to regulate the overall life cycle of packaging.

The aim is to strengthen the principles of the circular economy, reduce packaging waste and protect consumers from substances of concern (SoC) in packaging materials. The regulation is directly and uniformly applicable across all countries.

The important new provisions include:

Recyclability: From 2030, all packaging to be designed for recyclability, mandating that at least 70% must be recyclable to be allowed on the EU market.

Recycled content requirements: By 2030, plastic packaging must include 10%–35% recycled content, with stricter benchmarks by 2040 up to 65%.

Use of recycled materials: Binding quotas for recycled content in plastic packaging will apply from 2030.

Reusable packaging requirements: Binding reusability quotas will be introduced for beverage and other packaging.

Environmental considerations in public procurement: The PPWR sets out binding minimum requirements to further demand for sustainable packaging.

Labeling requirements: Clearer and binding labeling will inform consumers more effectively about recycling options and the correct disposal of packaging.

What is GRS Polyethylene (PE)?

GRS, short for Global Recycled Standard, is an internationally recognized standard for products made with recycled materials. It mainly adds different proportions of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials to the package based on the requirements of customers.

GRS PE is also PCR PE, which is remade from recycled PE products after a series of processing and treatment, such as collection, sorting, cleaning, crushing and melting.

GRS PE can be available for multiple applications, such as packaging film, bags, plastic pipes etc. The PCR content varies from 50% to 100% depending on the product, volume, and physical requirements.

In the packaging field, more and more companies are using PCR PE to make packaging products. This helps them achieve the goal of sustainable development and to meet consumer demand for environmentally friendly products.

PPWR’s Impact on PE Material Packaging

PPWR promotes the development and improvement of single PE material packaging.

The European Flexible Packaging Circular Economy organization CEFLEX strongly recommends that flexible packaging be made from single polyethylene (PE) material of more than 90% by weight, with other barrier components such as SiOx, AlOx, aluminizing, EVOH containing a maximum of 5% . It is widely recognized by the industry now.

It encourages enterprises to optimize the packaging design of single PE materials and improve their recyclability. And it also prompted companies to study how best to improve the properties of this type of packaging.

Innovative Pure PE Packaging: 100% Recyclable

Gozen Packaging supports companies in meeting the requirements of the new EU Packaging Regulation. Our team has been exploring and researching pure PE packaging solution for a long time and has extensive experience on it.

Regular PE//PE laminate packaging: PE is a safe and reusable packaging material. It is non-toxic and will not release harmful substances during contact with the product. Pure PE laminate bag is transparent, allowing consumers to directly see the appearance of the product.

GRS-PE//PE laminate packaging: GRS PE, or post-consumer PE is more environmentally friendly and economical. This is a truly revolutionary solution which enhances recycling rates and supports a circular economy. We provide this innovative practical approach to reduce environmental impact while keeping high standards of functionality and product protection.

High-barrier PE//PE laminate packaging: High-barrier PE with excellent barrier properties, it can effectively block the transmission of oxygen, water vapor, odor and other substances. This type of bag can protect the quality of the content and extend the shelf life.

*Post consumer recycled PCR PE laminated with printing PE for consumer products packaging

*single layer PE printed slider zipper bag and regular zipper bag

A Shift Towards Circular Packaging

Basically Gozen can satisfy all your recyclable packaging needs, both standard and high barrier. With our professional experience on artwork design, production, and recyclable material development, we can provide various eco-friendly custom packaging:

• Recyclable Coffee Bag
• Recyclable Tea Bag
• Recyclable Cannabis Bag
• Recyclable Pet Food Bag
• Recyclable Laminating Pouches
• High Barrier Recyclable Pouch
• High barrier MDO-PE, EVOH-PE, BOPE film
• High-barrier mono-material pouch
• biodegradable PLA packaging

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Gozen: Partner for Optimum Packaging Solutions

PPWR meets the growing demand for sustainable products and also fosters innovation in the development of new packaging solutions and technologies. For Gozen, this is an opportunity to lead by example.

By offering groundbreaking solutions, such as GRS materials, compostable materials and advanced technologies, we are supporting this transformative shift and building a more green future.

Want to learn how your packaging can become PPWR-compliant, without compromising the brand experience or functionality of the package? Please Feel free to contact us at info@gozenpackaging.com or via Whatsapp at +86 18571566509.