Cologne, September 1, 2025 – The Central Agency Packaging Register (ZSVR) has published the new Minimum Standard 2025 for assessing recyclability. The aim is to provide producers and initial distributors with clear guidance at an early stage on how to align their packaging with the requirements of the upcoming European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
In practice, this means:
- Clear assessment methodology: Packaging must now be tested for recyclability using a defined formula. This creates transparency and comparability – also with regard to future documentation requirements for authorities and business partners.
- Structured presentation by packaging categories: All relevant requirements for each packaging type are bundled in an annex, making it significantly easier for producers to apply the rules.
- Early adjustment of packaging: Companies can now review and optimize their product ranges. This helps to avoid later cost risks caused by non-recyclable packaging.
- Impact on fees: Recyclability is directly factored into system participation fees (§ 21 VerpackG). The higher the determined value, the lower the fees – a direct financial incentive for recyclable packaging design.
- New requirements: Packaging containing PFAS or critical direct printing inks will in future be classified as non-recyclable. Paper, board, and cardboard (PPK) packaging must meet the same sorting criteria as paper-based composites.
- Individual proof for innovations: New materials or formulations can be recognized as recyclable through specific evidence – a clear advantage for innovative packaging developments.
- Supporting tools: In addition to the application guide, a list of attributes and a technical documentation for the EU declaration of conformity will be provided. These are particularly helpful for small and medium-sized enterprises in implementing the requirements.
- Preparation for 2030: From that year on, only packaging that is at least 70 percent materially recyclable will be permitted on the EU market. With the new Minimum Standard, producers can already check whether their packaging is future-proof.
ZSVR Executive Director Gunda Rachut emphasizes:
“Even though the PPWR will already come into force in 2026, the Minimum Standard 2025 provides companies with clear guidance today. They can use it to evaluate and adapt their packaging in good time.”
Our tip for you: Now is the time to prepare your packaging for the new requirements of the upcoming PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation). With our laboratory recyclability assessment, you receive a sound and meaningful analysis along with concrete recommendations for optimization – ensuring your packaging remains legally compliant and competitive in the future.
Downloads (German version; English version will follow as soon as it is released on the ZSVR website)
Mindeststandard 2025
Hintergrundinformationen zum Mindeststandard 2025
Anwendungshilfen zum Mindeststandard 2025
About EKO-PUNKT
As a dual system operated by REMONDIS, EKO-PUNKT offers you a legally compliant and efficient solution for system participation in Germany as well as for international compliance. We provide comprehensive support in meeting legal obligations simply and reliably. With us, you rely on an experienced partner who helps you optimize costs, ensure compliance, and at the same time make a valuable contribution to the circular economy.
Contact us now for individual advice
Autor
EKO-PUNKT GmbH & Co. KG
Vanessa Herzog
Waltherstr. 49-51
51069 Köln
T +49 221 964897-62
M +49 160 6184350
vanessa.herzog@eko-punkt.de
Quellen: EUWID Recycling, Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR)
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