The recently finalized compromise text of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has raised significant concerns among Members of the European Parliament. Article 29, paragraphs 1–3, now extends mandatory reuse quotas to nearly all types of industrial and commercial transport packaging – including formats for which no practical reuse solution currently exists.
What does this mean in practice?
- The regulation would apply to pallet wrapping films and strapping – key components in logistics – despite the lack of feasible reusable alternatives.
- Industrial sales packaging is included, even where direct contact with contents (e.g. paint, dairy products) makes reuse impossible due to contamination.
- In some cases, reuse quotas would reach 100% for transport within or between EU member states.
26 MEPs call for corrections
Led by Andreas Glück (Renew Europe), 26 Members of the European Parliament have issued a formal request to the Commission, demanding:
- Delegated act to exclude packaging types where reuse is technically or ecologically unviable.
- Impact assessment for all relevant packaging formats before implementation.
How does this impact Finland?
The proposed reuse rules risk increasing costs and disrupting logistics chains – especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. The issue is not only about environmental goals, but also about safeguarding the functionality of the European supply chain.
Sumi Oy continues to monitor the situation closely and advocates for EU legislation that supports both ecological sustainability and practical circular economy solutions.
