PPWR: EU confirms exemption for pallet wrapping films and straps from reuse targets

On 15 October, the European Commission officially confirmed that it plans to fully exempt pallet wrapping films and strapping from the 100% reuse targets set under Articles 29(2) and (3) of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The confirmation follows intense debate over the feasibility and sustainability of reusing these packaging formats, which are widely used in logistics across the EU.

During a recent meeting of the Commission’s Expert Group on Waste, the draft delegated act confirming the exemption was presented alongside findings from several supporting studies.

Industry stakeholders, including the European Plastic Films association, welcomed the move as a pragmatic response to operational realities. They also called on the Commission to extend a similar exemption to cross-border transport packaging, still covered under Article 29(1), which imposes a 40% reuse target by 2030.

While the exemption under Articles 29(2) and (3) is now confirmed, discussions on the scope and methodology for calculating targets under Article 29(1) are ongoing.

The Commission is expected to propose further guidance or adjustments later this year.

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