Change is coming to recycling and recyclability. In the next decade the European Union is setting new rules and regulations for recycling. By the year 2030 the EU is striving to have all packaging be designed for recycling. And by that same year a grading system will be put into place. Using the DfR (Design for Recycling) framework. Grade A will be 95% recyclable, grade B will be 80% recyclable, grade C will be 70% recyclable, and anything below 70% will be technically non-recyclable. DfR rules to be defined through delegated acts by 2028. This grading system will help sustainability in recycling become a reality.
The EU is pushing for a more sustainable future for the planet, making new regulations in hopes of reducing packaging waste by 15% in the year 2040. Road to regulation time line. In the 2010s concerns started to arise over single use plastics. In 2022 the European Commission suggested the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, (PPWR for short.) This regulation replaced the PPWD from 1994. The PPWR is aimed at preventing and reducing packaging waste throughout the EU. Improving packaging recyclability and recycling, and driving circular materials in packaging.
In 2025 the PPWR goes into effect in the EU, and development of secondary legislation starts. In 2028 standardized, mandatory labels for waste sorting on all waste receptacles and consumer packaging begins. Meaning, all trash cans, recycling bins and compost bins must each have the correct design and color coded labels. This will become a legal requirement by 2028.
Paperboard is the exciting material that is changing the game for recycling. With its unique blend of fibers it can be recycled up to 10 times, sometimes more. Brands are interested in paperboard because of its fibers and sustainability. Once the raw materials are sourced they are transported to a paperboard mill, where the materials are processed and moved to innovative packaging, then the paperboard is off to brands, retailers and consumers. Once the consumer is finished with the packaging they recycle it and the process repeats itself. Reuse. Reduce. Recycle.
Graphic Packaging International is a corporation founded in 1978, based in Atlanta Georgia. They design and manufacture solutions for commercial products, and own and operate paperboard mills. They help provide ethically sourced paperboard to those who need it.
With paperboard paving the way, the EU puts more regulations into place. By the year 2030 all packaging on the EU market must meet DfR criteria. And by 2035 all packaging must be recycled at scale. Single use plastic packaging will face restrictions. Items such as multipack drinks and fresh fruit containers, along with paper cups, lids, bowls and plates. Soon most plastic packaging and parts in the EU must meet initial minimum recycled content targets.
By 2038 all packaging in the EU must meet stricter criteria for recyclability. Meaning all items placed on the market must be a grade C or higher. Right now 87% of paperboard is recycled in Europe, while only 42% of plastic is recycled. Restriction on plastic will tighten in the years to come. With Paperboard, the future of sustainability looks promising. Learn more at Graphic Packaging International.