The event brought together over 150 representatives from EU institutions, the packaging supply chain, the waste management sector, NGOs, media and other actors with a stake in packaging management and sustainability.

In his opening video message EU Commissioner for the Environment Janez Potočnik underlined “it is clear that packaging can have a direct positive effect on resource efficiency, by for instance packaging’s role in the prevention of food losses on the way to the shops, on the shelves and in our kitchens.” This point was also taken up during the panel discussion, including EUROPEN members sharing their experience in implementing the requirements of EU waste legislation and providing an opportunity to discuss priorities for the upcoming review of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD). 

„Extended Producer Responsibility“ (EPR), a key policy tool for implementing requirements of the PPWD and meeting packaging waste recycling and recovery targets, was also a focus of discussions. EUROPEN members believe it will be critical to introduce minimum requirements for all EPR schemes to ensure a level-playing field across the EU and discourage free riding. A clearer definition of roles and responsibilities is also needed for EPR schemes to continue delivering on recovery and recycling targets set by legislation.

Increasing collection for recycling or recovery of post-consumer packaging will be an important step towards accelerating Europe’s transition to a circular economy. During the panel discussion it was emphasized that EUROPEN members welcome efforts to tackle post-consumer packaging. 

The event was attended by Amela Hrbat, general director of Ekopak.