Packaging Trend Watch from Europe

Packaging Trend Watch from Europe

European packaging buyers are increasingly driven by PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations – and its requirements for reusability, recyclability and circular design.

The concept of circularity was widely used throughout the exhibitions this spring, 2026.

Recycling vs reuse – both circular, but fundamentally different

In recycling, materials are broken down and processed into raw material for something new – a process described as circular. 

In reuse, materials are kept intact, cleaned, upcycled and circulated again and again – also a circular process.

While this reflects the extent of the concept, it can make it harder to understand the different impacts, logistics and opportunities of each approach.

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