Package and Packaging Waste Regulation: the Commission exempts wrapping and straps from the scope

"The European Commission decided that wrapping and straps used to secure goods on pallets during transport will not have to meet the EU’s 100% reuse requirement under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)", it announced on 25/02/2026.

This exemption, introduced through a delegated act, aims to "acknowledge operational feasibility", following a study assessment of the Commission. It shows that "the exclusive use of reusable pallet wrappings and straps for transport operations when used within the same company or among linked or partner companies, or for deliveries within the same Member State, could lead to disproportionate adaptation costs".

The study assessment was conducted following feedback from stakeholders between 10/12/2025 and 09/01/2026.

Instead, operators will have to meet an overall reusability target of 40% by 01/01/2030. For the European Commission, this exemption ensures "aligning sustainability goals with current technological and financial realities".

The PPWR, which entered into force on 11/02/2025, introduces mandatory recyclability measures by 2030…