New EU regulations targeting PFAS chemicals and packaging waste have taken effect, drawing criticism from small businesses over compliance costs and administrative burdens.

New European Union rules under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) took effect on Wednesday, banning high levels of PFAS "forever chemicals" in food-contact packaging. The regulation aims to reduce waste and improve public health by setting tighter standards for packaging materials. While the rules apply to new products entering the market, they exclude goods already in circulation before the implementation date.

Industry Criticism and Compliance Costs

Small businesses and online retailers have expressed significant concern regarding the new administrative requirements, which include registering packaging in multiple EU member states. Industry groups, such as the German retailer association Händlerbund, warn that the lack of exemptions for small firms creates a barrier to cross-border trade. Some businesses, including Monstaas Workshop and iLabs Electronics, have reported pausing deliveries to EU countries, citing annual costs of approximately €300 per country for authorized representatives.

Environmental Goals and Future Targets

The European Commission reports that packaging waste in the bloc increased by 20% over the last decade, with 178 kilograms of waste generated per person in 2023. The PPWR introduces binding targets to reduce packaging waste by 5% by 2030 and 15% by 2040. Future requirements include standardized labeling by 2028, the expansion of deposit-and-return schemes by 2029, and mandates that all packaging be recyclable by 2030.