According to the EU PPWR Regulation (EU) 2025/40, packaging placed on the EU market shall be so manufactured that the presence and concentration of substances of concern (SoC) as constituents of the packaging material or of any of the packaging components is minimised, including with regard to their presence in emissions and any outcomes of waste management, such as secondary raw materials, ashes or other material for final disposal. By 31 December 2026, the European Commission, assisted by the European Chemicals Agency, shall prepare a report on the presence of substances of concern in packaging and packaging components.

The substances will be restricted in the EU PPWR Regulation (EU) 2025/40, if they are relevant for recycling, via the Design for Recycling (DfR) criteria, or via the update of the EU REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 for substances that affect human health or the environment.

On 16 July 2026, ECHA’s PPWR team proposed a draft list containing 731 substances and invited feedback on the substance information from the industry. In particular:

• The current use of the substance in question in packaging applications: a positive confirmation (or otherwise) of the substance use in packaging materials, types and formats listed
• Whether the substance is an intentionally added substance (IAS) or not
• The packaging material/type/ format the substance is used in
• The technical function of the substance

The deadline for commenting is 24 August 2026.

Intertek China Hardlines labs will continue to monitor the implementation of the EU PPWR in the EU and the UK-NI and its subsequent implementing regulations and rules, to provide you with testing services and technical support in compliance with the EU packaging regulation and standards.

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