Packaging Compliance in Germany: Publication of the 2025 Minimum Standard & Outlook on the PPWR

The German packaging authority “Stiftung Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister” ( ZSVR) has published the Minimum Standard 2025 for recycling-friendly packaging. This sets a clear goal: from 2030, only packaging that is at least 70% recyclable by material may be placed on the market.

Key Updates:

• Structure & Readability: The standard has been revised with practical applicability in mind. Packaging will now be clearly categorized by material type — aligning with the upcoming EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR).
• Methodology: Testing steps are now described in detail. A new formula for calculating recyclability and a clear Appendix II consolidate all relevant information.
• Tools: Application guidelines and background information are already available. A technical documentation and an attribute list will follow.
• Expert Panel: Expanded to include representatives from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), additional system operators, and the Forum Rezyklat, ensuring more practical relevance and diversity of perspectives.

Important Milestones:

• August 2026: Reporting categories will be expanded from the current 6 to 22. Recycling-friendly design and a minimum share of recycled content will become central requirements.
• 2028: An EU Commission delegated act will define the specific measurement of recyclability.
• 2030: The binding target of a 70% recycling rate will come into force.

Eco-Modulation – Still Without Effect
In principle, companies using recycling-friendly packaging should benefit financially through reduced licensing fees. In practice, however, this incentive mechanism (eco-modulation) has so far been ineffective — violations of implementation are not subject to fines; only reporting and notification obligations are enforced.

Further information is available on the website of the Central Agency Packaging Register Foundation (ZSVR).

Mindeststandard 2025 veröffentlicht: Frühzeitige Orientierung für Unternehmen zur Vorbereitung auf die Europäische Verpackungsverordnung (PPWR)

 

 

PPWR in Europe
With the PPWR, the EU will introduce binding requirements for the ecological design of packaging starting in 2028. The Minimum Standard 2025 is therefore intended as a bridge: it already aligns with future European requirements and gives companies the opportunity to proactively and purposefully develop their packaging today.

If you have questions about EPR requirements for WEEE, batteries, and packaging in Germany, you can contact the Go4Recycling team at any time.