APEAL supports new measures voted by the European Union on packaging and packaging waste

The Association of European Packaging Steel Producers (APEAL) has been receptive and supportive of the new stringent recycling measures voted by the EU on April 24. APEAL has endorsed them by officially adopting the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The EU’s objective is to reduce the production of packaging waste and encourage a higher recycling rate. This will also help unify the domestic packaging market and move towards a more sustainable and circular economy. APEAL’s main objective is to establish design criteria to promote the recycling of all types of packaging, in addition to classifying its performance in terms of recyclability. These measures will be implemented by 2030 and will apply to all packaging categories.

The first time that a performance sorting system with specific criteria will be implemented will be essential to ensure that packaging materials are designed to be recyclable and can be collected, separated and recycled in large quantities, according to the association.

Three levels of recyclability percentages have been established, called A, B and C, to be achieved by 2030. In addition, it has been determined that A and B levels will have to be met by 2038, which will encourage innovation among manufacturers of underperforming packaging or could eliminate them from the market.

Recycling performance fees

APEAL is pleased to see the implementation of eco-modulation of rates, which is based on recycling performance ratings. This decision demonstrates the importance and rewards the use of permanent materials such as steel, which can be recycled several times and contribute to a sustainable material circulation system.

Steve Claus, Secretary General of APEAL expressed his appreciation for the progress made and congratulated all European entities for their approach and work in implementing the final legislation.

However, he adds, “We would have liked to see the packaging categories and design criteria for recycling explained more clearly at this stage. We look forward to dialogue with the EU institutions to obtain more information on the establishment of design criteria for recycling for each type of material”.

Transport packaging

EU Affairs chief Metka Cavka noted that they are in favor of the rule that all packaging should be recyclable, but expressed disappointment that it will not come into force until 2030. In addition, it considers the requirement that at least 55% of packaging waste be recycled in terms of collection, sorting and recycling to be insufficient.

APEAL expresses regret that the proposed legislation classifies steel drums, drums, intermediate bulk containers and drums as transport packaging.

In terms of packaging, there are clear examples of those intended to be sold to the final consumer and labeled as “sales packaging” under national legislation and guidelines in several EU member states, he said.