PPWR Declaration of Conformity: A Guide to the New EU Requirement
Under the PPWR Regulation, all companies that place packaging on the market in the EU are required to provide a PPWR Declaration of Conformity. This declaration serves as legally binding proof that the packaging meets all the requirements of the regulation—from recyclability and composition to the absence of hazardous substances. Similar to the CE marking for products, it is intended to ensure transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain. If it is missing, the packaging may no longer be placed on the market in the EU.
Who is responsible, and what does this mean for businesses?
The “producer” of the packaging—that is, the manufacturer, importer, or brand owner—is responsible. Anyone who places packaging on the market under their own name must ensure that the declaration is available and accurate.
- Data ownership: All relevant information regarding the packaging must be available.
- Current Status: Changes to the product or its specifications mean that the declaration must be updated.
- Availability: The statement may be requested by the authorities at any time—so it must be available promptly.
This requirement, with no transition period, will take effect in August 2026. Companies should therefore begin defining their processes immediately.
What information is required in the PPWR Declaration of Conformity?
The PPWR establishes a standardized format for the statement, in which all relevant information is provided:
- Identification of the packaging (e.g., serial number or lot number)
- Manufacturer Information: Name, Registered Office, Authorized Representative (if applicable)
- A statement that one is solely responsible for complying with all requirements
- Proof of compliance with requirements—recyclability, absence of hazardous substances, recycled content
- Standards and Test Methods Used
- Date, Location, Signature
The declaration must be available in the official language of the country where the packaging is placed on the market. Companies should set up a digital archiving system to store documents in an audit-proof manner and retrieve them quickly.
How can this be put into practice?
Preparing the declaration of conformity is not a one-time step, but rather part of an ongoing process. Companies should follow these specific steps:
- Analyzing the packaging: Is it recyclable? Does it meet the material specifications? Does it contain any prohibited substances, such as PFAS?
- Data Management: Collecting and storing all relevant information in a single, centralized location.
- Benefits of PPWR Software: Use of automated systems to assist in creating and managing the declarations
- Integration with Existing Processes: Compliance and quality management systems should reflect the requirements of the PPWR
Those who act early can minimize risks and avoid supply shortages once the regulation takes effect.
Why is the PPWR Declaration of Conformity more than just a requirement?
The PPWR Declaration of Conformity is not merely a bureaucratic requirement, but a strategic tool for transparency. It builds trust with business partners and demonstrates a company’s sustainability performance to end consumers.
Companies that proactively meet these requirements position themselves as pioneers in the circular economy and strengthen their image. Requirements such as the PPWR can also open doors to new markets, particularly those subject to strict sustainability criteria. Learn more here.
What are the risks of noncompliance?
Companies that fail to implement the PPWR Declaration of Conformity in a timely manner run the risk of facing significant consequences:
- Fines and Other Penalties: National authorities may impose severe penalties.
- Loss of market access: Sales in the EU are not permitted without a valid declaration.
- Damage to Reputation: Sustainability-Related Missteps Harm the Brand Image
The PPWR isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a must. Anyone who simply ignores the requirements will lose not only compliance but also their competitiveness.
Learn more in our PPWR webinar
In our webinar, we will show you how to implement the PPWR requirements efficiently with our new FramesCube PPWR module—from data collection and compliance management through to audit-proof documentation.
