What’s new?
On 22 January 2025, the European Commission approved Regulation (EU) 2025/40, introducing stricter rules on packaging sustainability and waste reduction across the EU. This regulation repeals Directive 94/62/EC and aligns packaging requirements across Member States.
Key Provisions
- Recycling & Reusability: By 2030, all packaging must be designed for recyclability. Non-compliant packaging will be banned from the market.
- Reduction Targets: The regulation sets mandatory packaging waste reduction goals:
- 5% by 2030;
- 10% by 2035;
- 15% by 2040.
- Chemical Restrictions: The existing ban on lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium in packaging is reinforced.
- New Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) Limits: From 12 August 2026, packaging in contact with food must not exceed:
- 25 ppb per single PFAS;
- 250 ppb for the sum of PFAS;
- 50 ppm total fluorine threshold.
- New Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) Limits: From 12 August 2026, packaging in contact with food must not exceed:
- Recycled Content Requirements: From 2030, different plastic packaging types must meet minimum recycled content targets, increasing by 2040 to reach 65% for most plastic packaging.
Impact on the Cosmetic Industry
- Packaging Minimization: Cosmetic brands must optimize packaging to reduce weight and volume, ensuring no more than 50% empty space.
- Harmonized Labelling: Packaging must feature uniform labels indicating material composition and recycling instructions. QR codes may be used.
What now?
- 11 February 2025: Regulation enters into force.
- 12 August 2026: Main requirements apply.
- 12 August 2028: Decision 97/129/EC is repealed.
This regulation represents a major shift towards sustainable packaging, with significant obligations for manufacturers, importers and retailers in the cosmetics industry.