In parallel with the rise in reports, regulatory activity has also increased significantly: in 2025, a total of 5,794 measures were taken, representing a 35 per cent increase compared to the previous year. This shows that authorities are responding more quickly now, and in a more coordinated manner and more consistently.

The European Union's updated ecodesign regulations are significantly altering the operational standards within the textile industry. Those who prioritise products with extended service life, ease of repair, and recyclability at an early stage are positioned to achieve substantial competitive advantages.

Pallet wrappings and strapping bands, such as stretch film and plastic straps, are now exempt from the obligation of full reuse. Previously, this obligation applied to internal company use, transactions between affiliated companies and national transport within a Member State. The new regulation is specifically designed to ease the burden in these areas.

From 28 May up until the PPWR deadline on 12 August 2026, you can take part in our PPWR Online Workshop Series – hosted by trade-e-bility. Across up to four compact monthly sessions, you will receive a clearly structured overview of the most important changes and how to implement them. Your VERE promo code: ppwr_vere_rabatt

VERE e.V. participated in the European Commission’s SME Panel survey on the Circular Economy Act. VERE prioritises harmonisation, simplification, digitalisation, and expanding Extended Producer Responsibility systems and has clearly stated its position on these matters.

A recent study shows that the product safety of sunscreens urgently needs to be reviewed; currently, children and adolescents are exposed to banned plasticisers.

One of the EUNR’s goals is to create a level playing field for all obligated companies in Europe. By curbing free-riding behaviour and consistently enforcing the EU Packaging Regulation across Europe, fair competition is to be ensured.

The European Commission plans to suspend the obligation to appoint an Authorised Representative under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) – including for packaging, electrical and electronic equipment, and single-use plastics – until 1 January 2035. Nevertheless, the Environment Committee of the Bundesrat (German Federal Council) firmly opposes this…

VERE e.V. has taken note of ongoing discussions regarding battery deposits, maintaining its position of opposing such a system and continuing to monitor relevant developments closely.

German industry and waste management associations criticise rising bureaucracy and impractical requirements in packaging law. They are calling for a stronger focus on consumer packaging, greater planning certainty, and regulatory relief for industrial cycles. In the meantime, producers and retailers are warned of additional obligations.

The collection rate targets set by Directive 2012/19/EU are unrealistic and unsuitable for practical application. Collection volumes and rates between member states are hardly comparable and do not allow for reliable assessments of the actual performance of the circular economy.

The draft bill for the German Packaging Act Implementation Act (VerpackDG) had proposed the instalment of a central prevention organisation, which was ultimately rejected following widespread criticism. VERE also successfully lodged a protest against such an organisation, as it would have likely resulted in incurred additional costs and significant…

The new German Packaging Law Implementation Act focuses on increased recycling, reusable packaging and funding for waste prevention. Political and civil society stakeholders are calling for further, stricter measures, but various companies fear this will lead to higher costs, more bureaucracy and planning uncertainty. VERE advocates for more practical…

The European Commission plans to introduce a levy on uncollected waste electrical and electronic equipment to promote recycling. However, the European Court of Auditors has criticised the lack of reliable data used to calculate the corresponding proposal.

A study commissioned by BKV GmbH questions the feasibility of the reusable targets set out in the EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) for numerous types of plastic packaging. A lack of data, economic uncertainties and technical hurdles could make implementation significantly more difficult for producers.

Zero Waste Europe (ZWE) criticises the fact that repair and reuse measures are mostly financed by public funds. According to the polluter-pays principle, producers should be asked to contribute more.

Producers are currently facing ongoing regulatory uncertainty. Whilst the sale of disposable vapes remains permitted in Germany for the time being, certain flavourings could soon be phased out. At the same time, a general ban continues to be debated politically and is a key concern for environmental and health organisations.

Despite high recycling rates, the German recycling system still has room for improvement. To improve these rates, producers are expected to make a significant contribution in future through sustainable and recycling-friendly packaging design.

Producers and sellers are invited to request a free aid package containing instructions and materials for the safe disposal of batteries, especially for German consumers.

LIVE Webinar: Join us on 12 March 2026 at 11:00 AM (CET) for our free live webinar on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in France, where we provide a focused overview of the country’s complex regulatory landscape and the specific obligations facing companies looking to claim space on the French market. Our webinar purposefully provides a detailed…

From 12 August 2026, stricter packaging regulations will apply to retailers and producers. On February 11, 2026, the German Federal Cabinet approved the Packaging Law Implementation Act (VerpackDG), thereby enacting the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) across Germany. Consequently, three major adjustments to producer obligations will ensue.