As a brand or manufacturer, your packaging will soon be judged not only on appearance, but also on recyclability, choice of materials and reusability. With the advent of the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) fire owners face clear requirements around sustainable packaging design. In this article, we explain what to look out for and how to future-proof your packaging design - without compromising on brand identity or performance.
What will change under PPWR?
The PPWR sets clear requirements for packaging in the European market, including:
- Minimum recyclability (minimum Grade C from 2030)
- Restrictions on material combinations such as PE/PP
- Restriction on unnecessary barrier layers
- Labelling and sorting information on packaging
- Promotion of reusable or refillable systems
As a brand owner, you will have to deal with this directly when developing artwork, material selection and packaging functionality.
Practical tips for PPWR-proof packaging design
1. Opt for mono-materials where possible
Packaging made from one type of material (e.g. mono-PE) are the easiest to recycle. Avoid combinations such as PE/PP or PET/PE, which are difficult to separate in existing recycling streams.
KIVO solution:
We offer mono-PE films with excellent processability, barrier options (such as EVOH), and a look not inferior to laminates.
2.Avoid unnecessary barrier layers
Barrier layers such as aluminium or PP often increase the complexity of recycling. Ask yourself: is a barrier really necessary for product protection?
KIVO solution:
Our EVOH barrier films are designed to remain recyclable and fall within recyclability Grade C.
3. Think about labels, inks and glue
Labels, printing and adhesives can hinder recycling. Opt for removable labels, in-line printable foils or printing on a separate sleeve that comes off easily.
Tip: Use as little ink as possible and use adhesives with low disturbance levels.
4. Optimise your format and filling system
Smaller or thinner packaging can reduce environmental impact, as long as it does not compromise product safety. Also runability on packaging machines plays a role.
KIVO solution:
Our films are optimised for VFFS machines (such as GEA, Rovema, Syntagon, GKS), so you can switch to more sustainable alternatives without production problems.
Common barriers to sustainability - and our answers
- "Mono-PE does not provide enough barrier"
Our mono-PE films with EVOH offer excellent protection against oxygen - and remain recyclable.
- "Packaging with recycled content looks less attractive"
KIVO develops films with high gloss and stiffness that match the look and feel of traditional laminates.
- "Packaging machines jam with thinner films"
Our films have been extensively tested on industrial VFFS machines, with excellent sealing performance.
- "More expensive materials squeeze margin"
Through optimisation in film thickness, waste reduction and machine efficiency, you can save costs elsewhere.
KIVO as packaging partner for brand owners
KIVO combines technical expertise, recyclable materials and chain cooperation within, among others, the Circular Plastics Alliance. This is how we help brands make sustainable choices that are both feasible in production and attractive on the shelf.
Want to spar about how your packaging can become PPWR-compliant, without compromising on brand experience or processability?
Contact us for a personal consultation with one of our packaging specialists.
