From 2025 on, Portugal introduced new regulations for packaging labeling. According to Article 28 of Decree-Law No. 152-D/2017, packaging must be clearly labeled to indicate the material used and, if necessary, provide information on separate collection and disposal.
Companies placing packaging on the market must ensure compliance with the legal requirements. This applies to all packaging materials, including plastic, glass, metal, paper/cardboard, wood, and composite materials.
Key points:
- Non-reusable primary and secondary packaging must be marked with the appropriate disposal location (e.g., the correct waste bin).
- No specific symbols are legally required; various markings are permitted.
- Alternatively, the information can be provided in the product manual or at sales points (either on the packaging, in the manual, or at the sales point; for foreign manufacturers, also on their website).
- If packaging is labeled, manufacturers can use either their own symbols or those provided by EPR systems (see below).
- The only requirement is that the labeling clearly indicates where the packaging should be disposed of.
The Portuguese packaging regulation follows the 97/129/EC labeling system, which is also used in Italy and other EU countries. Additional recycling symbols may also appear on the packaging. The Green Dot is voluntary.
For more information, please refer to the EPR system Ponto Verde Sociedade Ponto Verde and the environmental authority APA FAQ_Marcacao.pdf
If you place packaging on the Portuguese market, you should immediately check whether your products comply with the new requirements.
Further details and official guidelines can be found on the website of the Portuguese Environmental Agency (APA).
If you have any questions regarding EPR requirements in Portugal, feel free to contact us!