Europen updates guide to European packaging legislation

Europen has published a revised edition of its guide to European legislation affecting packaging and packaged goods. The guide takes account of relevant EU policy developments and voluntary initiatives, as well as changes introduced at national level since the previous edition was published in 2007.

The key European legislation in this area is the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive 94/62/EC. The business of every company operating in Europe is affected by this legislation and by the adaptation of its requirements into national law in each EU member state. Its twin objectives were to provide a high level of environmental protection and avoid obstacles to trade and competitive restrictions or distortions in the European market.

The guide contains an analysis and interpretation of the overarching legal setting in which the industry operates, and an explanation of the CEN harmonized standards. As legislation regarding packaging is also constantly evolving in the 27 member states, the guide also lays out country-by-country the relevant legislation. 

Veronique Bagge, managing director of Europen, said: ‘Our industry’s strategy on sustainability and the legislation have both moved on significantly since the guide was last published five years ago. For Europen’s multinational members, a clear understanding of both European and national legislation is crucial to their business. I believe the industry is taking great strides in sustainability, and the up to date information and analysis in this guide can help us make things better, together.’

A copy of the publication is provided free to Europen members and available for 70 euros to non-members on http://www.europen.be/ where you can also download sample pages. 

Europen is the association representing the European packaging industry and other stakeholders on questions regarding sustainable packaging and the environment. Its 46 members cover packaging users, producers and suppliers of raw materials suppliers across the packaging value chain as well as national associations. The secretariat is based in Brussels.

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