IPV survey finds inconsistent PPWR interpretation one month after rules take effect
The Industry Association for Paper and Foil Packaging (IPV) has published a flash survey of member companies one month into the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, finding inconsistent interpretation of rules, blurred producer-manufacturer responsibilities and a surge in customer conformity requests that exceed the regulation's actual text. The association has issued five demands to the European Commission for uniform guidance, standardised conformity proofs and risk-based documentation, warning that compliance workload is diverting resources from sustainable packaging innovation.
Why this mattersUnclear PPWR implementation is adding compliance headcount at converters and diverting spend from packaging development across the European paper and foil supply chain.
- IPV flash survey covers the first month since PPWR implementation.
- IPV identifies four main problems: inconsistent role interpretation, blurred producer/manufacturer distinction, excessive documentation burden, and rising compliance costs.
- Member companies have had to add staff in certification, compliance and sustainability functions.
- IPV has issued five short-term demands to the European Commission, including uniform EU-wide guidelines and standardised conformity proofs.
- IPV managing director Karsten Hunger says the first weeks are a warning signal requiring urgent published examples from authorities.
- Jung Verpackungen managing director Claus Jung says added paperwork diverts staff from developing packaging innovations.