PPWR & VerpackDG
Packaging rules are changing.
Europe is reshaping its packaging legislation. The aim: less waste, better circularity and more consistent requirements. What may sound complex at first can be explained clearly.
The key date.
12.08.2026 The PPWR generally applies from this date. At the same time, Germany’s VerpackDG enters into force.The essentials at a glance
One shared framework. Clearer compliance documentation.
The new rules combine European product requirements with implementation in Germany.
EU-wide
The PPWR establishes directly applicable packaging requirements in all EU Member States.
Implemented nationally
In Germany, the VerpackDG governs responsibilities, procedures and practical implementation.
Product-specific
We provide the required EU declarations of conformity and product specifications on request.
Two levels. One goal.
Europe sets the framework. Germany governs implementation.
The European regulation
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 gradually replaces the previous EU Packaging Directive. It sets requirements including for substances, conformity, packaging minimisation, labelling, reuse and recyclability.
Implementation in Germany
Germany’s Packaging Law Implementation Act (Verpackungsrecht-Durchführungsgesetz, VerpackDG) supplements the PPWR with national responsibilities, procedures and enforcement rules. It replaces the previous German Packaging Act on 12 August 2026.
What does this mean for you?
Much remains familiar. Compliance documentation becomes more important.
Your specific obligations depend on your role in the supply chain and how the packaging is used.
- 01
Established structures remain
Registration, participation in a dual system and extended producer responsibility remain core elements of German packaging law.
- 02
Closer cooperation in the supply chain
Product-specific information and conformity documentation must be available wherever they are needed to meet legal obligations.
- 03
Your role determines your obligations
Additional obligations may arise depending on whether your business acts, for example, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor.
ELLER foodPackaging
We are prepared.
We have assessed the requirements relevant to our products and implemented the necessary measures. The following points have been completed and are continuously maintained by us.
- Article 5Our packaging is PFAS-free. The PPWR limits for lead, cadmium, mercury and hexavalent chromium are met.
- Article 15We only place packaging on the market that complies with the PPWR requirements applicable to it.
- Article 16We provide the required product-related information and documentation within the supply chain.
- Articles 38/39We apply the conformity assessment procedure and prepare and maintain the technical documentation and required EU declarations of conformity.
Documentation
The right documents. For the right product.
If you need documentation for procurement, quality assurance or compliance, we support you with product-specific information.
- EU declaration of conformity (DoC)
- the product specification agreed with you
- any other available material- and product-related information
Service packaging in Germany
You decide how system participation is handled.
Included directly in the ordering process
For customers in Germany, we calculate the system participation fee based on the packaging materials. It is shown separately in the order confirmation and invoice – unless you handle system participation yourself.
Any previous decision by you to handle system participation yourself remains in place. Check your setting in your customer account under “System participation fee settings (Germany)”.With your own registration and system participation
If you meet the legal requirements, are registered with LUCID and participate the relevant quantities in a system yourself, this can be reflected through the corresponding setting in your customer account. We cannot provide individual legal advice on self-managed system participation.
Questions and answers
In brief.
Key questions about the PPWR, the VerpackDG and our compliance documentation.
-
What is the PPWR?
The PPWR is Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste. It establishes more consistent rules that apply directly across the EU, including rules on prevention, substance restrictions, design, labelling, reuse and recovery of packaging. -
Does the PPWR replace the German Packaging Act?
Not directly. The PPWR replaces the previous EU Packaging Directive. Germany repeals its existing Packaging Act at the end of 11 August 2026 and replaces it with the VerpackDG on 12 August 2026. The PPWR and VerpackDG then apply alongside one another: European requirements plus national implementation. -
When do the new rules apply?
The PPWR entered into force on 11 February 2025 and generally applies from 12 August 2026. The VerpackDG also enters into force on 12 August 2026. Some PPWR requirements apply only from later dates specified in the Regulation. -
What changes for me as a customer?
Familiar structures such as registration, participation in a dual system and extended producer responsibility remain in place. Additional obligations may apply depending on your role and the packaging concerned. You should therefore clarify internally or with your legal adviser whether, for example, you qualify as a manufacturer, importer or distributor. -
Which documents can I obtain from ELLER foodPackaging?
On request, you will receive the EU declaration of conformity (DoC) and the agreed product specification for the product concerned. Depending on the product and your needs, other available material or product information can be added. -
What does the EU declaration of conformity confirm?
The DoC confirms that the packaging concerned complies with the PPWR requirements applicable to that product. These include the relevant substance requirements and other product-specific provisions. -
How do I request a product specification or DoC?
Email info@eller-foodpackaging.de. If possible, include the item number or product name, your customer number and the document you require. This helps us process your request more quickly. -
Where can I find the official legislation?
The full text is available in Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on EUR-Lex. The German Federal Government provides current information on Germany’s packaging legislation. Please consult a qualified legal adviser for an assessment of your individual circumstances.
Request documents
Do you need a product specification or DoC?
Send us the item number or product name, your customer number and the document you require. Our team will take care of your request.
Request documents by email