With the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, Regulation (EU) 2025/40), the European Union has introduced a harmonised legislative framework that will fundamentally reshape how packaging is designed, manufactured, used and managed throughout its entire life cycle. More than a new regulatory requirement, the PPWR represents a strategic shift towards packaging systems that are circular by design, resource-efficient and aligned with the objectives of the European Green Deal.

As the first obligations of the Regulation will start to apply from 12 August 2026, companies across the packaging value chain are preparing for significant changes. To support this transition, in March 2026 the European Commission published its first Guidance Document together with a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), providing practical clarification on definitions, scope and implementation of the new rules.

A common vision for Europe’s packaging sector

The PPWR establishes a common framework for all packaging placed on the European market, with the ambition of reducing packaging waste while promoting innovation and competitiveness.

Among its key objectives are:

• reducing packaging waste generation across the European Union;
• ensuring that packaging is designed for recycling and effectively recyclable at scale;
• promoting reusable packaging systems where appropriate;
• improving harmonised labelling and transparency for consumers;
• strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR);
• encouraging the use of safer and more sustainable materials.

These objectives require companies to rethink packaging not only as a product, but as part of an integrated circular system involving material selection, manufacturing processes, product performance and end-of-life management.

Why the PPWR matters for TERRIFIC

The transition promoted by the PPWR closely reflects the ambition of the TERRIFIC project.

Rather than responding to regulatory changes after they occur, TERRIFIC is already developing innovative solutions that anticipate many of the principles now embedded in the European legislative framework.

The project brings together partners from across the packaging value chain to develop, validate and demonstrate eight flagship bio-based packaging solutions, combining high performance with industrial scalability and improved environmental sustainability.

From bio-based food trays and thermoformed cups to coffee capsules, flexible packaging and innovative barrier materials, TERRIFIC explores how renewable raw materials can contribute to packaging systems that meet market expectations while supporting Europe’s circular economy objectives.

Looking beyond material substitution

One of the key messages emerging from the PPWR is that sustainability can no longer be achieved simply by replacing one material with another.

Future packaging solutions will need to be designed considering their entire life cycle: resource efficiency, manufacturability, product protection, recyclability, compostability where appropriate, and compatibility with existing waste management systems.

This systemic approach lies at the heart of TERRIFIC.

The project evaluates different end-of-life scenarios, i.e. recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion and reuse, to ensure that innovative bio-based packaging solutions can be effectively integrated into existing European value chains and waste management infrastructures.