Wrapping and straps used to secure goods on pallets during transport will not have to meet the EU’s 100% reuse requirement under EU packaging legislation, following EU adoption of a Delegated Act.
Relaxation the requirements of the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) reflects what the Commission calls a ‘balanced approach’, remaining commited to advancing a circular economy, but acknowledging ‘operational feasibility’.
The decision follows a Commission study assessing the feasibility for an exemption to the 100% reuse target for pallet wrapping and straps used within companies and between companies in the same Member State, set under the PPWR.
The study concluded that the exclusive use of reusable pallet wrappings and straps for transport operations when used within the same company or among linked or partner companies, or for deliveries within the same Member State, could lead to disproportionate adaptation costs.
The exemption ensures operators can meet the other overall 40% reusability target under the PPWR without facing undue burdens associated with specific packaging components, aligning sustainability goals with current technological and financial realities.
Under the Regulation, from 1 January 2030, economic operators in the EU will have to ensure that at least 40% of transport and sales packaging, including pallets and pallet wrapping and straps, is reusable.
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation entered into force on 11 February 2025. It aims to address the pressing environmental challenges caused by excessive packaging and to create opportunities for businesses involved in recycling and sustainable packaging solutions.
The Regulation introduces measures such as mandatory recyclability by 2030, minimum recycled content in plastic packaging, and reuse targets. These measures will significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, water use and environmental costs in the packaging sector.
