Packaging Design Requirements
In order to ensure that packaged goods sold on the global market will comply with the requirements, it is essential that compliance begin with the design phase.
Essential Requirements
Throughout the EU, all packaging is subject to the Essential Requirements for Packaging. This means that all components and complete packaging systems must:
- be source reduced
- comply with applicable heavy metals limits
- comply with applicable minimization requirements for other noxious and hazardous substances
- be recyclable, compostable, and/or yield a certain energy gain when incinerated
They must meet certain standards in each of these areas, and must meet additional requirements in order to be claimed as compostable or reusable.
There are restrictions, bans, and phase-out limits on certain materials, particularly expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in some jurisdictions and for certain product and packaging types.
Empty Space and Source Reduction Requirements
Several countries limit the percentage of empty space that may be contained within packaged consumer goods, in an effort to prevent deceptive marketing practices and reduce packaging.
Certain states require the use of recycled content materials in plastic packaging containers. In addition, there are fee discounts in some jurisdictions for packaging containing at least 50% recycled content. In 2004, California's regulation was changed to require all rigid plastic packaging containers to comply regardless of the statewide recycling rate.
Packaging Reduction & Planning Requirements
Companies operating or trading in some markets must file periodic statements outlining packaging reduction efforts, goals, and progress toward existing goals.
EPI's Approach
- EPI will help you tailor your design, approval, and procurement processes to ensure compliance with all applicable requirements.
- We can train your personnel on how to use these tools to design compliant packaging and to capture the necessary data for documenting compliance during the design phase.