PPWR Update: What It Means for Laminated Paper Packaging – and How Derprosa Can Support You

Dear partner, dear friend:

As many of you are aware, the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) entered into force in 2025 and will start applying from August 2026.

Its objective is to

• improve packaging recyclability
• reduce packaging waste
• increase circularity
• harmonize packaging requirements across Europe

Given the growing number of questions we are receiving from printers, print finishers, carton converters, and brand owners, we would like to share a practical summary of what PPWR means for laminated paper packaging and how Derprosa by Taghleef Industries is supporting our customers through this transition.

What is changing?

One of the most important aspects of PPWR is that packaging placed on the European market will increasingly be assessed based on its recyclability performance and overall environmental impact. Recyclability classes and modulation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees are expected to become important elements of the future framework, although several implementing criteria are still being finalized by the European Commission.

For laminated paper / cardboard and other paper-based packaging structures, the key question will be:

Can the final packaging remain compatible with paper recycling streams while maintaining the premium appearance expected by brands and consumers?

The good news: PPWR is perfectly compatible with laminated paper packaging

There is sometimes a misconception that the use of laminating films on paper packaging may be restricted under PPWR.

This is not the case.

The regulation evaluates the recyclability of the final packaging structure, not the film alone. Paperboard, inks, adhesives, coatings, foils, labels and laminating films all contribute to the overall recyclability assessment of the package.

How Derprosa by Taghleef Industries supports recyclability

Taghleef Industries has conducted testing through certified laboratories using recognized recyclability assessment methodologies to evaluate representative paper-laminated structures.

These studies demonstrate that Derprosa films, when laminated onto paper substrates using recommended lamination systems, do not interfere with the paper recycling process.

This means our customers can move forward with confidence, knowing that the film component has been designed and tested with paper recyclability in mind.

Naturally, under PPWR, the recyclability assessment will ultimately apply to the complete packaging structure, so final-pack testing may still be required depending on the specific combination of materials used.

Packaging minimization: another PPWR priority

PPWR encourages packaging optimization and the reduction of unnecessary material.

Derprosa films contribute to this objective through:

• Thin BOPP film technologies
• Optimized thermal lamination solutions
• Multiple film thickness options
• Premium performance with minimal material contribution
• Consistency

For paper-based packaging, maintaining a low proportion of plastic within the total structure can help support future recyclability objectives.

PFAS and heavy metals

We are also receiving questions regarding substances of concern, particularly PFAS and heavy metals.

We would like to reassure customers that:

• Derprosa films fully comply with PFAS guidelines, helping customers stay ahead of evolving regulatory requirements.
• Representative testing has confirmed total fluorine levels significantly below PPWR thresholds applicable to food-contact packaging
• Heavy metal content is not present in our films
• Supporting regulatory documentation is available upon request

For graphic arts films such as Soft Touch®, UV-coated films and other specialty decorative products not intended for food-contact applications, the specific PPWR PFAS restrictions for food-contact packaging are generally not directly applicable. Nevertheless, Derprosa can provide technical information and supporting documentation whenever required.

Recycled-content solutions

For customers seeking solutions that incorporate recycled content, Taghleef Industries offers its reLIFE® portfolio, which includes products developed using circular and recycled-feedstock approaches.

As with many aspects of PPWR, the detailed implementation requirements for specific packaging categories continue to evolve, and our technical teams are actively monitoring these developments.

How Derprosa can help

Our commitment goes beyond supplying laminating films.

We are supporting customers by providing:

• Recyclability-related technical information
• Regulatory Information Sheets
• Substance compliance documentation
• Guidance on suitable paper-lamination structures
• Support for discussions with brand owners
• Updates on PPWR developments and future recyclability requirements

Our commitment

At Derprosa by Taghleef Industries, we believe that premium aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability can coexist.

Our objective is to help customers continue creating high-quality laminated packaging that meets market expectations while remaining aligned with the evolving European regulatory framework.

If you would like to discuss a specific packaging structure, recyclability considerations, sustainability objectives, or PPWR-related questions, our technical and commercial teams will be pleased to support you.