Innovative packaging is here and the EU is changing the game for recyclability in packaging. By 2030 all packaging in the European Union must be designed for recycling. Changing how the world recycles. New grading systems and regulations will be implemented as well. Using the DfR (Design for Recycling) framework, packaging will be graded and sorted accordingly. Grade A will be 95% recyclable, grade B will be 80% recyclable, grade C will be 70% recyclable, anything below 70% will be non-recyclable. 70% and below cannot be sold on the EU market after the year 2030. Creating a more sustainable future.
In the 2010s concerns rose for single use plastic and materials. Warning of missed content targets. In the year 2022 the European Commission suggested a new regulation. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR.) This regulation replaced the PPWD from 1994. The PPWR is aimed at preventing and reducing waste, improving packaging recyclability and recycling. It also aims to drive circular materials in packaging. Circular materials like paperboard.
Paperboard is the exciting material leading this change. With its unique fiber blends of wood and recycled materials, paperboard can be recycled up to 10 times, sometimes more. The paperboard life cycle is simple. First raw materials are brought to a paperboard mill, after being processed the paperboard moves to innovative packaging, then it is distributed to brands, companies, retailers and consumers. Once the consumer is done with the paperboard packaging they recycle it and the whole process starts over again. Reuse. Reduce waste. Recycle.
Graphic Packaging International was founded in 1978 and is based in Atlanta Georgia, United States. They design and manufacture solutions for commercial products. And they own and operate many paperboard mills throughout the states. Their paperboard is responsibly sourced and made with wood and recycled fibers alike. They provide high quality paperboard to brands and consumers worldwide.
With restrictions tightening and regulations falling into place the PPWR goes into effect in 2025. Soon development of secondary legislation starts. In the year 2028 standardized, mandatory labels for waste sorting on all waste receptacles and consumer packaging begins. Meaning all labels on trash cans, recycling bins and compost bins must coincide, and designs must follow a strict color coding system, allowing consumers to sort waste properly.
Most plastic packaging in the EU must meet initial minimum recycled content targets. Single use plastic will face more restrictions as time continues. Items like fresh fruit containers, paper cups, lids, paper bowls and plates we all see restrictions. In 2035 all packaging in the EU must be recycled at scale. Currently 87% of paperboard is recycled in Europe while 42% of plastic is recycled.
In 2038 all packaging in the EU must meet stricter grading criteria for recyclability. By 2040 most plastic packaging and parts in the EU must meet increased recycled content targets. The European Union is making big steps toward a more sustainable future in packaging and recycling for us and our planet. Learn more about this exciting new era of recycling at Graphic Packaging International. With paperboard packaging the sustainable future is here.