Holmen Ready to Support Customers as PPWR Implementation Approaches

As the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) moves towards implementation, Holmen is ready to support customers in navigating the new requirements and preparing their packaging portfolios for the future. Fibre-based packaging products like Invercote®, Incada®, Inverform®, and the ultra-light kraftliner Holmen Elevate are well positioned to meet market needs.

The PPWR introduces new requirements across the packaging value chain, with implementation taking place over several years. While specific obligations will enter into force at different points between 2026 and 2035, companies are already reviewing their packaging strategies to ensure compliance and minimise future business risks.

Helping customers prepare for upcoming EU packaging rules

"Material choice has become increasingly important as the regulatory landscape evolves. Our ambition is to help customers understand how the requirements may affect their packaging and to support them with solutions that are fit for the future," says Andreas Boo, Head of Sustainability and Regulatory Affairs at Holmen Board and Paper.

Paper-based packaging is well aligned with several key objectives of the PPWR. Thanks to its established circular value chain, paper packaging currently achieves one of the highest recycling rates of any packaging material in Europe, reaching approximately 83%*. Unlike plastic packaging, paper packaging is currently exempt from mandatory recycled-content requirements under the PPWR and can continue to be produced using 100% fresh fibres for all purposes where this is most fitting.

Supporting customers ahead of the 2026 requirements

The first PPWR requirements will begin to apply from 12 August 2026. For many packaging users, one of the most immediate impacts will be restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food-contact packaging.

To support customers, Holmen assesses its food-contact-certified products for compliance with the PFAS requirements as they are described in the Guidance Document for Regulation (EU) 2025/40.

Documentation relating to PFAS and PPWR compliance is available upon request for:

• Invercote and Inverform

• Incada

• Anchor pulp

• Holmen Elevate

• Holmen SURE

"The question is not whether PPWR will affect your packaging – but how. The companies that start reviewing their packaging now will be in a much stronger position as requirements become clearer. This will create a smoother transition towards future compliance," says Andreas Boo.

As PPWR implementation continues, Holmen remains committed to supporting customers with knowledge, documentation and fibre-based packaging materials that contribute to a more circular packaging system.