4 tips for Green Deal-compliant packaging

The reduction of packaging waste is a central component of the new EU regulations. Two regulations set important standards in this regard: the EU Regulation on the Prevention of Deforestation (EUDR) and the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The EUDR requires companies to prove that their fiber-based packaging does not contribute to deforestation. Brands must therefore ensure the traceability of their packaging and submit electronic due diligence declarations for each batch of relevant products. This includes proof that the materials originate from deforestation-free regions - including detailed geographical data. A legality check in the country of origin is also required.

The PPWR in turn sets specific targets for waste reduction, reuse and recycling. This means that companies must revise packaging designs to ensure recyclability and minimize empty space during transport. The requirements can be summarized in 6 R's - shown in the figure below.

Sarama calls companies to action: "Brands and suppliers must act now" to meet these requirements. Consistent waste avoidance not only saves resources, but also protects against penalties and legal consequences.

The requirements for sustainability reporting are increasing. In future, brands will have to request even more data from their suppliers in order to comply with the new EU regulations. This can be a challenge, particularly in countries where sustainability issues have previously played a subordinate role. Two key directives here are the CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) and the CS3D (Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive).

The CSRD requires companies to disclose comprehensive information about their environmental impact, social practices and corporate governance - both internally and along the entire value chain. They must explain how climate change and human rights impact their business and how their trade affects people and the environment. These reports must also be independently audited.

The CS3D goes one step further. It requires companies to carry out due diligence to identify, prevent and mitigate negative impacts on the environment and human rights. This includes

• the introduction of codes of conduct for suppliers
• the assessment of risks and
• the termination of business relationships with a high risk of non-compliance.

Companies must also prove that they reliably record and analyze their ESG (environmental, social, governance) data. Brands should now check whether their packaging suppliers provide reliable ESG data and are regularly checked for sustainability risks. Without a clear data strategy, there is a risk of legal and financial consequences.

Another key to compliance is transparency. Brands need to ensure full transparency about their packaging, especially when it comes to the EUDR, CSRD and CS3D regulations. If they do not have their own resources, close collaboration with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) is essential "to get the transparency that is actually required," says Sarama.

There are three key areas in particular:

• Material transparency: brands must disclose accurate information on materials used, quantities and specifications.
• Process transparency: Suppliers must adhere to codes of conduct, pass audits and implement quality management systems.
• Reporting transparency: Companies need reliable ESG data from packaging suppliers to meet reporting requirements.

One thing is certain: without clear control over these factors, compliance risks are imminent. Brands should therefore establish systems at an early stage to ensure transparency and data quality.

Compliance with environmental and employee rights is a central component of current and existing regulations. The EU Forced Labor Regulation (FLR) in particular sets out clear requirements: Products manufactured under forced labor - including child labor - may not be sold on the EU market.

Brands must therefore ensure that their suppliers have implemented documented processes to avoid such risks. This includes detailed audits that cover issues such as ownership, social standards and quality management. To safeguard themselves, companies should take the following measures:

• Adopt a code of conduct for internal processes and business partners
• Creation of prevention plans to identify risks at an early stage
• Contractual assurance of compliance with social standards by suppliers
• Evaluation and, if necessary, termination of business relationships if violations are identified

Companies can only ensure legal compliance and avoid penalties by consistently monitoring the entire supply chain.

This is exactly where ISPO 2025 from 30 NOV. - 02. DEZ: It offers the ideal platform to learn about practical approaches to sustainable packaging and to exchange ideas with industry experts on current requirements and developments. Take the opportunity to gain valuable impulses for the further development of your packaging strategy - and actively shape the future. Be part of it!