Minimum rotation cycles
Design and certification to withstand multiple industrial wash cycles without degradation.
European regulations
PPWR: The new European Packaging Regulation and how it affects reusable cups
What the regulation requires and how Ekomon's traceability system helps ensure compliance
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PPWR and EPR, in brief
The PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) is an EU regulation with direct application across the Union. It sets binding waste reduction targets, progressively phases out single-use plastics across HoReCa and events, and establishes mandatory minimum quotas for reusable packaging towards 2030.
EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) requires whoever places packaging on the market to finance and manage the waste lifecycle. A cup recognised as closed- or semi-closed-loop reusable incurs significantly lower EPR eco-fees than single-use packaging, but requires verifiable proof that an operational reuse and return system is in place.
Requirements
Technical requirements for a cup to qualify as reusable
Rotation and return system
The packaging must form part of an active collection, sanitisation and reintroduction circuit (deposit-return system / DRS or reverse logistics). Selling a rigid cup without a return circuit does not qualify as genuine reuse.
Substance restrictions
Control of inks, additives, and regulated substances (PFAS, plasticisers), especially relevant after repeated thermal wash cycles.
Labelling and clear information
Standardised reusability pictograms and tracking information.
How Ekomon supports you
QR traceability: the documentary evidence required by regulations
Our traceability system allows for batch or individual QR code integration, connected directly to cup lifecycle management software. This enables you to document deliveries, returns, events, and wash cycles, providing the records required by regulations and environmental audits to prove that a cup operates within a closed-loop reuse system.
For the client
- Documentary proof for environmental audits
- Potential reduction in EPR eco-fees compared to single-use
For operations
- Integrated stock, washing, and return management
- Log of deliveries, returns, events, and wash cycles
QR traceability is part of the overall PPWR requirements (alongside certified resistance to industrial washing and compliance with substance restrictions); speak with us to determine the exact scope for your operations.
View the traceability systemEnd of cycle
Customisation and end-of-life, designed for recycling
Regulations require that, at the end of its lifespan, the cup is 100% recyclable within existing streams. With screen-printed customisation, we ensure the printed area does not interfere with optical sorting detection at recycling facilities or contaminate the base material recycling process.
Frequently asked questions
PPWR and reusable cups: common questions
What is the PPWR?
It is the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. Directly applicable across the EU, it sets binding waste reduction targets, restricts single-use plastics in hospitality (HORECA) and events, and establishes minimum quotas for reusable packaging by 2030.
What is the difference between a reusable cup and a recyclable cup under the PPWR?
A recyclable cup can be processed into raw material at the end of its life. A reusable cup is, in addition, engineered for multiple use and wash cycles and must operate within an established return and sanitisation system. The PPWR requires both for reusable items: circulating throughout their lifespan and being recyclable at the end.
How does QR traceability help comply with the PPWR?
QR tracking, whether per batch or individual unit, logs deliveries, returns, events, and wash cycles. This log provides documentary evidence that the cup operates within a reuse system. It forms part of compliance, alongside certified wash resistance and substance restrictions.
What is EPR and how does it affect eco-fees on reusable cups?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requires whoever places packaging on the market to finance its waste management. Reusable cups in closed or semi-closed loop systems incur significantly lower eco-fees than single-use alternatives, provided it can be proven that an active return system is in place.
Next step
Do you need to adapt your operations to the PPWR?
We help you evaluate which requirements your current operations meet and how to integrate cups, washing, and traceability.