Italy creates new pathway for compostable packaging under PPWR

Italy has introduced new requirements allowing the use of certified compostable packaging for selected applications, using flexibility provided under the European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The measure creates a different regulatory pathway for certain single-use packaging formats where organic recycling infrastructure is available, recognising compostability as an alternative end-of-life solution for specific applications.

The development could influence how brands, converters and packaging suppliers approach products affected by upcoming European restrictions.

Selected packaging formats can use compostable alternatives

The Italian measure applies to specific categories rather than creating a universal requirement for all packaging.

Covered applications include certain single-use plastic packaging for pre-packed fresh fruit and vegetables below 1.5 kg, food and beverage packaging used within hospitality and catering environments, individual condiment portions and selected hotel-sector cosmetic and hygiene packaging.

The approach focuses on applications where compostable packaging can enter established organic waste collection and treatment systems.

Italy uses PPWR flexibility mechanism

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation establishes restrictions and requirements across the European Union, but it also provides limited flexibility for Member States under certain conditions.

Italy is using the possibility provided by Article 9(2)(b) to maintain or introduce additional compostability requirements where suitable biowaste collection and organic recycling systems exist.

This creates a specific national approach while remaining connected to the wider European regulatory framework.

Certification becomes essential for market access

The new requirements mean that compostable packaging cannot rely solely on marketing claims.

Applicable packaging must demonstrate compliance through recognised certification systems, including standards such as UNI EN 13432 or equivalent European compostability requirements.

For packaging producers and brands, this increases the importance of technical documentation, certification and correct end-of-life communication.

Compostability becomes a regulatory strategy

Historically, compostable packaging has often been discussed as a voluntary sustainability option.

Under the Italian approach, compostability becomes linked to regulatory compliance for specific packaging applications.

This represents a shift in how compostable materials are viewed: not only as an alternative material choice, but as part of a regulated waste-management pathway.

Different national approaches may emerge across Europe

The Italian decision highlights a potential challenge for companies operating across multiple European markets.

While the PPWR creates a common framework, Member States may apply certain flexibilities differently depending on infrastructure, waste-management systems and national policy priorities.

This could require packaging suppliers and multinational brands to monitor national implementation details alongside EU-level requirements.

Organic recycling infrastructure becomes a key factor

The success of compostable packaging depends heavily on the availability of suitable collection and treatment systems.

Without effective separation and industrial composting infrastructure, compostable materials may fail to reach their intended recovery pathway.

Italy’s approach reflects the principle that material choice and waste-management infrastructure must be designed together.

Compostable packaging gains a new regulatory role

The Italian measure demonstrates how compostable packaging may continue to play a role in specific applications where recycling is technically challenging or where organic waste systems are well established.

For the packaging industry, the development reinforces the need to evaluate materials not only by their composition but also by the collection, treatment and recovery systems available after use.

As PPWR implementation progresses, national interpretations and infrastructure differences will remain important factors in packaging strategy across Europe.