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Implications of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation
The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is changing the packaging requirements across Europe. Our expert Dr. Jonas Breitsameter explains the practical implications for selecting packaging adhesives and why now is the right time to prepare for future Design for Recycling requirements.
Key insights from this article:
An expert’s view on the technical aspects of the PPWR
Dr. Jonas Breitsameter is Technical Service Manager and specialist for paper and packaging adhesives at WACKER. He supports customers in Europe in developing high-performance adhesive formulations based on VINNAPAS® VAE polymer dispersions.
His work is closely connected to WACKER's global Technical Competence Center network. These application laboratories combine formulation expertise, application testing and analytical capabilities to help customers optimize adhesive performance, investigate recyclability-related questions and translate regulatory developments into practical product solutions.
Watch the expert video:
Dr. Breitsameter, the PPWR puts recyclability at the center. Is that changing the performance criteria for adhesives?
Dr. Breitsameter: One of the central principles of the PPWR is Design for Recycling (DfR). Rather than evaluating individual packaging components in isolation, the regulation considers how the complete packaging system performs during recycling. In paper packaging, fibers, coatings, printing inks and adhesives all contribute to the overall recyclability performance. Consequently, adhesive selection is no longer solely a matter of bonding performance but also part of the broader packaging design process. Although adhesives account for only a small proportion of paper packaging by weight, they can affect the recyclability of finished products. Their behavior during repulping depends on factors such as formulation, dosage, and application pattern. These factors influence fiber recovery and are therefore relevant when evaluating recyclability, making a system-level perspective essential.
Water-based VINNAPAS® VAE polymer dispersions are used in a broad range of paper and packaging adhesives such as paper bags, folding cartons, labels, corrugated board and paper converting.
Where do VINNAPAS® VAE dispersions stand in this scenario?
Dr. Breitsameter: Vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) dispersions are widely used in paper and packaging applications as they typically combine excellent adhesion with low VOC emissions, low odor and efficient processing. With VINNAPAS® WACKER offers a leading portfolio of water-based VAE polymer dispersions providing the performance required by modern packaging applications.
A major benefit of this portfolio and our decades of experience with VAE dispersions is the possibility to adapt and balance the properties of these versatile copolymers. This makes VINNAPAS® VAE dispersions a good binder technology to meet the complex requirements of design for recycling where balancing functionality, processability and circularity becomes essential.
In the video you said that the PPWR is still evolving. How can the packaging industry navigate this uncertainty?
Dr. Breitsameter: The strategic direction of the PPWR is well established. Packaging will need to meet harmonized recyclability requirements across Europe. But technical details are still being developed. Test methods, assessment criteria and performance thresholds are currently being discussed within industry associations and standardization bodies. Although the regulatory framework is still evolving, manufacturers do not have to wait before taking action.
By understanding how adhesive technologies influence recyclability and by evaluating formulations early, companies can prepare for future Design for Recycling requirements with greater confidence. Robust technical knowledge becomes particularly valuable in this transition period. Combining this technical expertise with regulatory insight will be essential for developing the next generation of paper packaging adhesives.
"Although adhesives account for only a small proportion of paper packaging by weight, they can affect the recyclability of finished products."
How can WACKER support in this situation?
Dr. Breitsameter: We strongly believe regulatory uncertainty should not prevent innovation. We therefore support customers on two levels.
First, we actively contribute technical expertise to industry discussions through organizations such as IVK, the German Adhesives Association, helping to shape future Design for Recycling criteria.
Second, we provide practical guidance through our laboratory work. Internal recycling studies and rapid screening methods enable customers to evaluate adhesive concepts during product development and make better-informed formulation decisions while official assessment methods continue to evolve.
Are you interested in more information?
Contact our expert Dr. Jonas Breitsameter, Technical Service Manager at WACKER and specialist for paper and packaging adhesives.
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