The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) came into force on 11 February 2025 and aim to minimise the quantities of packaging used and packaging waste generated while lowering the use of primary raw materials.
One of its key aims is to minimise the presence and/or concentration of substances of concern (SoCs) in packaging, including restrictions on packaging containing per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) if they exceed certain thresholds.

Under the PPWR, the European Commission, assisted by the ECHA, must prepare a study report identifying SoCs in packaging and packaging components by 31 December 2026.
The report will determine the extent to which they negatively affect the re-use and recycling of materials or impact chemical safety. It may list the substances of concern present in packaging and packaging components and indicate the extent to which they could present an unacceptable risk to human health and the environment.

The report will also include considerations on appropriate follow-up measures, including possible needs for new restrictions under REACH for SoCs affecting human health and the environment or new restrictions as part of the design for recycling criteria.

The call for evidence

This call for evidence is intended for …