On 12 August 2026, the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will become fully applicable across the European Union. It represents one of the most significant reforms affecting the packaging sector in recent decades.

Its objective is to harmonise rules throughout the European Union, reduce packaging waste and promote a more resource-efficient economy.

But what does it actually mean for paper bags?

A new common framework for all packaging

Unlike European directives, which must be transposed into national legislation, the PPWR is a regulation that applies directly in all Member States.

This means that the same rules will apply to manufacturers, distributors and users of packaging throughout the European Union.

Paper bags are part of this process and will need to comply with new requirements relating to conformity, recyclability, labelling and the technical information associated with the product.

Declaration of Conformity becomes mandatory

One of the main new requirements is the obligation to provide an EU Declaration of Conformity.

This document will certify that the packaging complies with the requirements established by the Regulation and must be supported by the relevant technical documentation.

For professional buyers, it will provide additional assurance that the product complies with current European legislation.

Recyclability moves from a claim to a measurable requirement

The PPWR establishes harmonised criteria for assessing packaging recyclability.

All packaging will have to demonstrate that it can be effectively collected, sorted and recycled within existing systems.

Paper bags start from a favourable position thanks to their integration into European paper and cardboard collection and recycling systems. However, recyclability will need to be demonstrated according to the new common criteria.

Greater transparency for businesses and consumers

The Regulation also introduces new requirements regarding information and labelling.

The objective is to ensure consistent communication across Europe and avoid confusion regarding the environmental characteristics of packaging.

Companies will need to ensure that any information provided about their products is properly substantiated and documented.

A more demanding regulatory environment

The PPWR does not operate in isolation.

Its implementation coincides with other European initiatives related to sustainability, the fight against greenwashing, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the traceability of certain raw materials.

This means that manufacturers, distributors and professional users will need greater technical and documentary information about the packaging they use.

An opportunity to highlight the value of paper bags

Beyond the new obligations, the PPWR represents an opportunity for packaging solutions capable of transparently demonstrating their environmental performance.

Paper bags benefit from a natural and renewable raw material, a well-established value chain and an extensive recycling infrastructure across Europe.

In this new context, the ability to demonstrate regulatory compliance will become just as important as the product’s own performance.

And this is precisely where paper bags can strengthen their position as a solution aligned with the requirements of the new European framework.