Flexible packaging industry calls for realistic recycled content targets

The flexible packaging value chain is calling on European policymakers to establish a balanced approach to recycled plastic content targets, arguing that regulatory ambitions must be matched by the availability of sufficient high-quality recycled materials. As Europe moves towards a more circular packaging system, industry representatives highlight the need for realistic objectives that support investment while maintaining product safety and performance.

Flexible Packaging Europe (FPE) and other organisations representing the sector support the objective of increasing recycled plastic use in packaging. However, they emphasise that achieving these targets will depend on the development of appropriate recycling technologies, stronger collection systems and the availability of recycled materials that meet strict quality requirements, particularly for food-contact applications.

Balancing regulation with material availability

The introduction of mandatory recycled content requirements represents a major shift for the packaging industry. Under the European Union's evolving packaging legislation, manufacturers are expected to increase the use of recycled plastics and improve the circularity of packaging systems.

However, the flexible packaging sector argues that setting targets without considering market conditions could create additional challenges. Many flexible packaging applications require advanced material properties, including high barrier performance, hygiene protection and durability, which means recycled content must meet demanding technical and regulatory standards.

Industry representatives believe that progressive targets, combined with regular reviews based on market development, could provide a more effective pathway towards circular packaging without limiting innovation or creating supply constraints.

Food-contact packaging presents additional challenges

One of the most complex areas for recycled content integration is food-contact packaging. These applications require strict controls to ensure consumer safety, meaning recycled materials must undergo advanced processing and approval procedures before they can be widely adopted.

The flexible packaging industry highlights that the expansion of chemical recycling technologies could play an important role in increasing the availability of recycled feedstock suitable for demanding applications. At the same time, the sector stresses the importance of maintaining high safety standards throughout the transition.

Investment depends on regulatory certainty

According to industry representatives, clear and achievable regulatory frameworks are essential to encourage investment in recycling infrastructure and new technologies. If companies have confidence that recycled materials will have a stable market, investment in collection, sorting and recycling capacity can accelerate.

Conversely, targets that exceed the available supply of suitable recycled plastics could create compliance challenges without necessarily improving environmental outcomes. A coordinated approach involving policymakers, recyclers, packaging producers and brand owners is considered essential to building an effective circular economy.

Supporting a more circular flexible packaging sector

Flexible packaging plays an important role in protecting products, extending shelf life and reducing material consumption. However, improving its circularity requires solutions that consider the complete packaging lifecycle, from design and production to collection and recycling.

The industry argues that recycled content targets should be supported by investments in infrastructure, innovation and regulatory alignment. By combining ambitious sustainability goals with practical implementation strategies, Europe can accelerate the transition towards a more resource-efficient packaging system.

The future of recycled content in packaging

The debate around recycled plastic targets reflects a broader challenge facing the packaging industry: how to achieve meaningful environmental progress while maintaining product safety, affordability and supply reliability.

As European regulations continue to reshape packaging requirements, collaboration between policymakers and industry stakeholders will be critical. A balanced approach could help increase recycled plastic use while supporting innovation and ensuring that sustainable packaging solutions remain technically and economically viable.