PULP IL
Green Packaging Solutions

A study conducted by the Union found that from 2012 to 2020, the portion of non-recyclable packaging increased significantly. Furthermore, packaging that is technically recyclable is not actually recycled because the processes needed for collection, sorting and recycling are not actually available, or are not economical, or their product is not of sufficient quality to be reused. Preliminary results of the Commission's report show that many member states are struggling to meet the recycling targets set in Article 6 of Directive 94/62/EC and PPWD Directive (EU) 2018/852 The research indicates that packaging materials (mainly plastic) which are theoretically recyclable, are not recycled due to 2 main reasons: The cost of their separation and sorting is expensive. There is no market for the recycled material produced at the end of the process. In other words, in 2022, it was decided to review the old regulations and update them in such a way that past failures will not return. In February 2023, the European Commission published a proposal for a new packaging regulation that will replace the old packaging directive. The publication also states that the new directive (guideline) will enter into force immediately. These days the European Parliament and the Council of the Union reached agreements on the revised rules for the reduction, reuse and recycling of packaging . ​ In accordance with the principle of the polluter pays (section 191/2), the updated regulation expands the responsibility of the manufacturers who distribute packaging and packaged products in the European market, in such a way that they are responsible for their management at the end of their life. By the end of December 2024, the processes of organization and business contracts for the implementation of the updated regulation must be completed. ​ What should we do: Companies that supply products to the European market must actually simplify the packaging, by reducing the variety of raw materials, switch to using raw materials that can be effectively recycled and take care of reducing the volume of packaging. Guiding principles for success in adapting packaging to the new regulation: MONO MATERIAL - If the outer packaging is made of cardboard, it is desirable that the inner and protective parts of the product be made from a material that is recycled with paper waste. For example corrugated cardboard or Molded Pulp Minimum packaging volume/weight - reducing inflated padding materials (sponge / styrofoam) and replacing them with logistically more efficient solutions. Reducing the connection between materials - preventing plastic from sticking to cardboard as is done in packages with a transparent window or blister cards (a cardboard card to which transparent plastic of the Vacuum Forming type is attached) Avoiding the use of packaging materials containing toxic substances - heavy metals for example. The section also refers to the evaporation of toxins during the recycling of the materials. Summary: Due to the seriousness of the situation, the union decided on the immediate implementation of the updated regulation. By the end of 2024, all companies that distribute packaged products to European countries must carry out packaging update processes in a way that prevents them from unnecessary expenses and fines due to the use of wasteful packaging that is not suitable for real