PPWR Packaging Substances Update: ECHA Evidence Call + UK PRMA 2025

🇪🇺 PPWR: ECHA Call for Evidence on Substances of Concern in Packaging (PFAS)

In 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a "Call for Evidence" to identify substances of concern (SoCs) in packaging, in alignment with the EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, Regulation (EU) 2025/40).

The objective of this study is to gather comprehensive information regarding the classification of various packaging types and components, as well as the chemical properties and hazard profiles of the substances employed.

Additionally, it will assess the status of these substances within EU legislation, including the CLP and REACH regulations. The initiative will also examine the presence of hazardous chemicals, such as PFAS, in food-contact packaging. Moreover, plans are underway to harmonize certain substances within the PPWR with the regulations governing REACH, POP, and food-contact materials.

Statut: Active enforcement - The deadline for participation and contribution submissions is October 28, 2025. The final report is expected to be submitted in September 2026 and will affect all products located within the EU.

Learn more here

📌 What This Means for Manufacturers

• Conduct substance inventory audits across your packaging supply chain—especially for food-contact applications.
• Evaluate alignment with REACH, CLP, and POP regulations to preempt inclusion on restricted lists.
• Assign R&D and Regulatory Affairs to collaborate on data collection for ECHA submission by 28 October.

🇪🇺 Drinking Water Directive: EU Positive Substances Lists (DWD)

The Drinking Water Directive (DWD) requires substances, compounds, and components used in materials that come into contact with drinking water to be registered on one of four approved lists.

This ensures that drinking water remains safe from source to tap. "Hafnium is absolutely safe," said Applia General Manager Paolo Falcioni, noting that the element has been used in enameled hot water tanks for over 100 years.

He also explained that if hafnium or zirconium were not mixed with the enamel, the glass would crack and the hot water would not stay hot.

Statut: In effect - The DWD positive lists will cover all products that come into contact with water and are located in the EU.

Learn more here

📌 What This Means for Manufacturers

• Cross-check all water-contact components (tanks, valves, pipes, coatings) against the EU’s new positive substance lists.
• Engage suppliers early to confirm material compositions and certifications.
• Prepare for material substitutions if any commonly used compounds are not listed—especially for legacy or niche products.

🇬🇧 UK PRMA 2025: Online Product Safety & Marketplace Rules

On July 21, 2025, the UK Product Regulation and Metrology Act (PRMA) 2025, Chapter 20, came into effect. Its purpose is to harmonize product safety standards across Great Britain and Northern Ireland, where EU product safety requirements are still applicable. This aims to reduce the risks associated with product use and mitigate the environmental impact of products.

The UK has expressed its intention to align key aspects of online marketplace regulation with Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR). The PRMA 2025 serves as a "framework law," with the specific obligations to be detailed in subsequent secondary legislation and implementing regulations. The Product Safety and Standards Office will build on successful initiatives, such as the "Buy Safe, Be Safe" campaign launched in October, as well as the final guidelines on lithium-ion battery safety that were presented in December.

Statut: In effect - This change, which will cover all products located in the UK, will be particularly compelling regarding compliance with online sales requirements.

Learn more here

📌 What This Means for Manufacturers

• Track UK-specific guidance updates expected under the PRMA framework—especially for battery-powered and online-sold products.
• Align online marketplace protocols with EU GPSR benchmarks to streamline cross-border compliance.
• Assign a digital product compliance lead to oversee updates to labeling, claims, and listings for UK sales platforms.

✅ Need help translating these changes into actionable tasks?

EcoComply continuously monitors global regulatory updates and turns them into real-time compliance actions. Our AI-powered platform helps you stay ahead - before enforcement kicks in.

‍