New EU Rules on Recycled Plastic Content

Date

July 3, 2026

Category

EU Regulations

Sector

Food Packaging

Description

The European Commission has adopted Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/1425, introducing a revised methodology for calculating, verifying and reporting recycled plastic content in single-use beverage bottles.

The Decision replaces the previous framework and accommodates emerging recycling technologies, including mass balance approaches.

What's new?

The new Implementing Decision replaces Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2683

Key changes include:

• Broader range of recycling technologies.
• Mass balance accounting permitted.
• Enhanced verification and reporting requirements.

Why it matters

• Supports EU recycled-content targets.
• Broader opportunities to use qualifying recycled materials.
• Increased expectations for data collection and verification systems.

Source: Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/1425