Packaging Act - Basics

Here you will find a brief overview of the new laws relating to packaging : the Packaging Act 2019, the Packaging Act 2022 and the new Reusable Packaging Act from 2023. We will briefly explain to you what the laws are all about, what you need to take into account, why we are convinced that the new regulations make sense and how we can support you in your obligations.

Packaging Act of 1 January 2019 - What is it all about?

The new Packaging Act (VerpackG) has been in force since January 1, 2019. It has replaced the Packaging Ordinance that was in force until then. The aim is to implement new EU packaging directives into German law, in particular:

1. Reducing and preventing the negative impacts of packaging on the environment
2. enabling fair competition

In order to achieve these goals, quotas have been set to promote environmental protection. In addition, the Central Packaging Register has been set up to monitor compliance with the law.

New Packaging Act 2022 - Changes since July 1, 2022

The Packaging Act of 2019 was amended on July 1, 2022. It is important that a registration must now be available for every packaging. In addition, reusable products are no longer exempt from the registration requirement, but remain exempt from system participation.

Reusable packaging for catering is mandatory from 1 January 2023

From January 1, 2023, a reusable requirement for the to-go business will come into force (" Reusable Law "). Restaurant owners are obliged to offer reusable alternatives . These must not be more expensive than disposable packaging. Smaller businesses must refill reusable containers brought by customers at their request.

Plastic ban through reusable packaging law = disadvantages for the to-go business?

Single-use plastic is not completely banned, but its use is to be reduced. The " plastic ban ", as it is often called, does not lead to disadvantages for the to-go business, because there are enough equivalent packaging solutions made from environmentally friendly materials. Better-Pack, for example, offers you a variety of affordable products made from sustainable materials that are excellent alternatives to conventional single-use packaging!