The PPWR Declaration of Conformity becomes mandatory for every packaging type placed on the EU market from August 12, 2026. This comprehensive guide provides packaging managers with everything they need to prepare compliant documentation and avoid costly regulatory failures.
What is a Declaration of Conformity Under PPWR?
A Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is the formal legal statement confirming that your packaging meets all PPWR requirements - and by signing it, your company assumes full legal responsibility for compliance with EU packaging law.
Under the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR - Regulation (EU) 2025/40), every packaging type placed on the EU market from August 12, 2026 must be covered by an EU declaration of conformity. This is not simply another administrative document - it represents your company's legal guarantee that the packaging complies with all applicable PPWR Articles 5-12 requirements.
The DoC differs significantly from traditional CE declarations. While CE marking covers multiple product categories and often requires involvement from a Notified Body, PPWR declarations focus exclusively on packaging and typically rely on manufacturer self-assessment procedures.
Key Timeline Requirements:
- February 11, 2025: PPWR officially entered into force
- August 12, 2026: Declaration of Conformity mandatory for all new packaging
- 18-month preparation window: Available for compliance preparation
This timeline creates particular urgency for packaging managers overseeing portfolios of 1,000+ packaging items. Each unique packaging type requires its own specific declaration, making portfolio-wide preparation a substantial undertaking.
