Unpacking PPWR: What Substances of Concern Mean for Your Market
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) remains an integral part of strategic discussions as we approach key implementation timelines. This month in our Unpacking PPWR series, we focus on what Article 5 – Substances of Concern really means in practice, how requirements differ by market, and how Greif is already helping customers stay ahead of upcoming deadlines.
Why Article 5 matters to your business?
Article 5 focuses on reducing hazardous substances in packaging to protect people, products, and the environment. For customers, that translates into very practical questions:
- Will my current packaging still be compliant?
- Do I need to change specifications before 2027?
- Can my supplier support documentation and future transitions?
Understanding the answers now helps avoid costly requalification, delays, or last-minute changes later.
What’s changing or reinfoced under Article 5?
- Substances of concern must be minimised wherever technically possible
- Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium) must stay below 100 mg/kg
- BPA use is banned in food-contact packaging from 20 July 2026
- PFAS is subject to specific restrictions in food-contact packaging from 12 August 2026
Impact Differs by Market
PPWR doesn’t affect every business in the same way. The level of impact and required actions depend on your market – here’s a quick guide to what matters most for you.
Dangerous Goods
What PPWR requires
- Heavy metals ≤ 100 mg/kg
- Substances of concern must be minimised, with supporting documentation
How Greif supports you
- All Greif packaging complies with EU heavy-metal limits
- Ongoing material reviews ensure alignment with substance-minimisation expectations
- Greif will supply the technical information to support you (the manufacturer) in completing the EU Declaration of Conformity.
Food Products
What PPWR requires
- Heavy metals ≤ 100 mg/kg (already in force)
- BPA use banned in food-contact packaging from 20 July 2026
- PFAS is subject to specific restrictions in food-contact packaging from 12 August 2026
How Greif supports you
- Steel drums are available with BPA-free by design (non-intent) internal lacquer (RDL-100/101FA)
- A range of IBC and plastic packaging solutions that comply with BPA requirements
- Greif food-contact packaging that complies with PFAS limits
- Where PFAS/BPA-containing components still exist, compliant alternatives are aimed to be available by Q2 2026
Non-Dangerous, Non-Food Products
What PPWR requires
- Heavy metals ≤ 100 mg/kg
- Substances of concern must be minimised
How Greif supports you
- All Greif packaging meets EU heavy-metal requirements
- Greif will supply the technical information to support you (the manufacturer) in completing the EU Declaration of Conformity.
- Material choices are aligned with PPWR substance-minimisation principles
Let’s talk about what this means for you
If you’re reviewing packaging specifications, planning for 2026 deadlines, or simply want to understand how PPWR affects your specific application, our teams are here to help. Contact your Greif account manager or Contact Us below to discuss your packaging requirements and PPWR readiness. We’ll work with you to assess your current solutions, identify any gaps, and plan next steps with confidence.
WEBINAR
UNPACKING PPWR
The PPWR is not just another regulatory directive; it is a legally binding framework across all EU member states, designed to reduce packaging waste, increase recyclability, promote reuse, mandate recycled content (PCR), and harmonise packaging standards across the European market.
cONTINUED READING
PPWR Timeline & Overview
We strive to work alongside you as regulations evolve, offering packaging expertise and practical perspectives to help you make informed decisions for your business. Many aspects of the regulations remain unclear and are under discussion. We will continue to monitor developments closely and keep our customers updated as new clarifications emerge.
Disclaimer: This information has been prepared by Greif’s commercial team for discussions with customers. It is not legal advice and should not be construed as such. It is given without any warranty or representation of accuracy or completeness and solely for the purpose of joint discussions on the potential impact of the PPWR. No rights can be derived from this. Greif advises its clients to carefully study the Regulation, monitor the related delegated acts and further developments on interpretations and advices from the expert groups and to make their own individual assessment on this important piece of legislation.
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