The European Union has intensified its efforts to move towards a circular economy, where waste reduction and increased recycling become key objectives. In this context, the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation plays a fundamental role in transforming plastic waste management, promoting sustainability and optimizing industrial processes.
This regulation not only affects packaging manufacturers, but also has a direct impact on recyclers and the entire supply chain. Companies in the sector must adapt quickly to the new regulations, which implies major adjustments in their production processes, including the need to ensure full traceability of recycled materials, establish strict quality criteria and promote the use of recycled content in their products.
Traceability and Quality: Pillars of the New Regulation
One of the key aspects of the regulation is the obligation to keep a detailed record of the origin and path of recycled materials. This traceability not only ensures transparency, but is also essential to comply with EU recycling requirements. This is in addition to stringent technical quality criteria, which seek to ensure that recycled materials are safe, suitable for use in consumer products and compatible with industrial processes.
It is important to note that recycled plastics intended for direct contact applications with food, pharmaceuticals or highly demanding products must comply with specific regulations, such as Regulation (EC) No. 282/2008 of the European Commission, which establishes safety requirements for recycled plastic materials in contact with food. This type of specification requires contaminant controls, validation of the effectiveness of the decontamination process and global and specific migration analysis.
Challenges and Opportunities for the Industry
The plastics industry faces significant challenges, but also great opportunities. Recyclers must implement detailed tracking systems and improve their recycling processes to ensure regulatory compliance. On the other hand, manufacturers that adopt eco-design practices and manage to integrate high-quality recycled materials will be able to access new markets that are more sustainable and aligned with the principles of the circular economy.
To achieve this, it is key to implement eco-design strategies, using more easily recyclable materials, reducing the use of non-recyclable inks and adhesives, and optimizing the weight and volume of packaging. In addition, advanced recycling technologies, such as chemical recycling, offer a complementary solution to mechanical recycling, allowing the recovery of plastic materials that would otherwise end up in landfills or incineration.
Benefits of Certification in the Framework of the European Regulation
In this scenario, certification plays a crucial role. Having certifications granted by accredited entities allows companies to demonstrate their commitment to regulatory compliance, improve their competitiveness and strengthen market confidence. European certifications not only facilitate adaptation to regulated markets, but also open up new business opportunities.
Certification audits include specific checks on recycled content in products, in-plant waste management, and the adequacy of traceability systems, providing companies with a strategic tool to differentiate themselves in the global marketplace.
Gestión de Compras Experience
At Gestión de Compras, we have extensive experience in the management of industrial processes that comply with European and global regulations. Our specialized team offers customized solutions to optimize the supply chain, ensure traceability of materials and facilitate certification. Ensuring that companies remain at the forefront of sustainability and efficiency.
We accompany our customers throughout the process, from design and manufacturing to the implementation of good production and recycling practices, contributing to an effective transition to a circular economy model. We have a wide range of recycling machinery, specialized in different recycling processes, in different materials (PP, PE, EVA, etc).
Conclusion
The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation marks a before and after in the management of plastic waste. Although compliance implies challenges, it also represents a unique opportunity for companies to adopt a strategic, sustainable and competitive approach. At Gestión de Compras, we are committed to supporting the industry on this journey, offering the tools and knowledge necessary to meet regulatory requirements and stand out in a global marketplace increasingly oriented towards the circular economy.
By integrating innovative and customized solutions, we help our customers transform regulatory challenges into competitive advantages. Ensuring more efficient, sustainable and profitable production processes.
