As the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) moves into implementation, 4evergreen is supporting the sector in turning regulatory ambition into practical, science-based action for paper-based packaging.
During its webinar “4evergreen and PPWR Technical Clarifications” on June 9th, which gathered nearly 300 participants, the alliance addressed one of the key challenges facing the paper-based packaging industry: how to apply recyclability requirements consistently across the value chain.
4evergreen member experts emphasised that recyclability must be assessed in real-world conditions, not only in theory. Its Technical Toolbox — including the Recyclability Evaluation Protocol, Circularity by Design Guideline, and Guidance on Collection and Sorting — provides harmonised methodologies to support this transition.
“PPWR sets the direction — but implementation depends on how recyclability is understood in practice across the value chain,” said Susan Brunner, 4evergreen Co-Chair.
The regulation introduces new requirements, including recyclability performance grades - reinforcing the need for harmonised recyclability testing methods and technical interpretation guidance.
By bringing together stakeholders from across the value chain, 4evergreen provides a platform for technical alignment and contributes to ongoing European standardisation work. Its methodologies are support discussions within CEN, as harmonised standards become central to PPWR implementation.
4evergreen invites policymakers, industry stakeholders and experts to engage with its work and use its toolbox to support a coherent, science-based transition towards circular paper-based packaging, with the shared goal of reaching a 90% recycling rate by 2030.
· Watch the webinar recording on YouTube and the slideshow for expert insights and practical clarifications.
· Explore the 4evergreen technical toolbox and guidelines on our website: 4evergreenforum.eu