New EU packaging regulations: An era of more sustainable fulfillment solutions

Martin Jezy10 May 20245 min

The European Parliament recently adopted new regulations for packaging that aim to reduce the environmental footprint and promote a circular economy.

These regulations, which will come into force from January 2030, will bring significant changes that we will master together.

Less is more: reducing packaging material

Every European produces an average of almost 189 kilograms of packaging waste per year. The new EU regulations set ambitious targets to reverse this trend:

  • By 2030, the amount of packaging is to be reduced by 5 per cent,
  • 10% by 2035, and
  • by 15% by 2040. 

    For e-commerce, this means that from 2030, a maximum of 50% of the packaging volume may be empty. This not only promotes more efficient packaging solutions, but also the increased use of recyclable materials.

Banning single-use plastic and minimising packaging waste

Another significant step is the ban on certain single-use plastic packaging from 2030, including packaging for unprocessed fruit and vegetables, sugar packets and mini shampoo bottles in hotels. 
 

  • This will have a significant impact on the way products are packaged and shipped and will require a strategic shift towards more sustainable alternatives.

Reusability and recycling

The new regulations require at least 40% of logistics and transport packaging, such as pallets and crates, to be reusable by 2030, rising to 70% by 2040

In addition, a minimum number of cycles for reusable packaging is specified in order to increase longevity and sustainability.

Quivo's role in this transformation

As your fulfilment partner, we understand the challenges associated with these changes. Quivo is already in the process of developing innovative solutions that not only comply with the new regulations, but also improve environmental performance. 

We are working closely with our regional suppliers and partners to ensure that our packaging solutions meet the new EU standards.

 

The passing of these new packaging regulations by the European Parliament is a significant step towards a more sustainable future. It is important that we as an industry adapt and take full advantage of these changes. 

Quivo is ready to guide you on this journey and ensure that your products are packaged and shipped in a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly way.

Sources

europarl.europa.eu

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