Source: European Parliament
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation[1], adopted by the European Parliament and the Council, has entered into force and will apply from 12 August 2026. However, some obligations, including on reuse targets, will enter into force only as of 2030.
The Commission has launched a study[2] to assess a possible exclusion of pallet wrappings and straps from the reuse targets for transport packaging as laid down in Article 29(2) and (3).
The study relies on literature review and consultation of the relevant stakeholders to get primary information. The methodological approach to assess a possible exemption is based on the Commission’s empowerment outlined in Article 29(18).
Therefore, food safety and hygiene issues, environmental issues and economic impacts (including possible supply chain disruptions) related to the exclusive use of pallet wrappings and straps in transport operations are being thoroughly assessed. In addition, the study is assessing the related administrative burden on concerned stakeholders.
This comprehensive methodological approach ensures a high-quality outcome and a deep analysis of all relevant sustainability aspects.
The study is to be completed by July 2025. Based on its results, the Commission intends to draft and propose the related delegated act under Article 29(18) of the regulation before the end of 2025 .
This timeframe will ensure predictability for economic operators well before the application of the related targets, by 2030.
- [1] Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 on packaging and packaging waste, amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and Directive (EU) 2019/904, and repealing Directive 94/62/EC, OJ L, 2025/40, 22.1.2025.
- [2] Study launched under the ordinary Commission’s procurement procedure: Framework Contract No ENV.B.3/FRA/2023/0012.