Starting in 2026, new binding regulations will apply across Europe: Following the PPWR, the EU Directive (EU) 2024/825 – “Empowering Consumers for a Green Transition” (EmpCo) – will also come into effect.

From that point forward, environmental claims on or about products in advertising will only be permitted with independent third-party certification.

This affects manufacturers or suppliers – if their goods are sold or processed further within Europe. Even if you produce on behalf of others: As soon as your client makes an environmental claim such as “xx% recycled content”, “microplastic-free”, “recyclable”, or “plastic-free”, this claim must be backed by certified proof.  With the products of 2026 being developed today it is important to take action at this time.

Our European partner flustix offers a wide range of independent certification marks, fully aligned with the requirements of EmpCo and PPWR:

• flustix RECYCLED DIN approved – for documented use of recycled content (mandatory disclosure under PPWR).
• flustix PRODUCT CONTENT MICROPLASTIC-FREE – for products without microplastics, such as cosmetics, detergents or agricultural products (note: microplastics will be banned under the Fertiliser Regulation from 2026 and require formal proof).
• flustix LESS PLASTICS PACKAGING – MIN. 95% PLASTIC-FREE – for fibre-based packaging with a maximum of 5% non-paper content, in accordance with the PPWR 95/5 regulation. These are considered recyclable via the paper stream and generate approx. 75% lower costs/fees per tonne than composite materials.
• flustix RECYCLABLE – to confirm recyclability of packaging according to PPWR requirements.

flustix have created a whitepaper to guide those impacted through this topic – which you can download here.

Feel free to get in touch – our team will support you in selecting the right certifications for your products, packaging, and markets.