2030: Recycled Material in Packaging Becomes Mandatory – A Challenge for Suppliers and OEMs
The EU is Taking Action
Starting in 2030, plastic packaging in the EU can only be placed on the market if it contains a specified percentage of recycled material. Depending on the packaging category, the minimum quota for recycled content will range from 10% to 35%—and this is just the beginning. By 2040, these quotas are set to increase further, reaching 25% to 65%. These new regulations aim to strengthen the circular economy and reduce waste.
For automotive manufacturers and their Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, this means a significant shift in packaging strategies. But what does this mean for your business? And how can you start preparing now?
Challenge: Material Transition and Compliance Requirements
With 2030 approaching, automotive suppliers face a significant challenge. Many current packaging solutions for components still rely on virgin plastic. In the future, these must contain a much higher proportion of recycled material—often through the use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic. However, securing suitable recycled materials in sufficient quantity and quality is anything but easy. The transition raises several practical issues:
✅Availability and Quality
Recycled plastics must be available in the first place. By 2030, demand is expected to outstrip the supply of high-quality recycled material. In addition, variations in purity and strength can impact packaging performance. Automotive parts require the same level of protection and precision fit—even with a higher recycled content.
✅Technical Adaptation
New packaging designs or materials may be required to meet recycling quotas. This transition takes time. Custom load carriers and specialized EPP containers, for instance, must be adapted to remain stable and durable while integrating a higher percentage of recycled content.
✅Compliance and Documentation
Beyond the technical challenges, there are also administrative hurdles. Companies will soon be required to prove and document the percentage of recycled plastic in their packaging. This means greater supply chain transparency, including supplier certifications, packaging documentation, and potential sample testing. For suppliers, this creates additional coordination efforts with their packaging partners.
✅Legal Consequences
Failing to meet the required quotas can lead to serious consequences. Non-compliant packaging will be banned from use starting in 2030. The worst-case scenario for the automotive industry? Components cannot be shipped because their packaging does not meet EU regulations. This risk increases the urgency to act now to secure supply chains.
Bottom line: The transition to recycled-content packaging is inevitable. Companies that plan ahead will gain a competitive advantage. Those who delay may face last-minute scrambling in 2029—or worse. So, what’s the solution?
Solution: FEURER Supports Your Transition
This is where FEURER comes in. As a specialist in packaging and logistics solutions with decades of experience, we understand the challenges of the automotive industry. Our focus has long been on sustainable packaging, making us the ideal partner to help future-proof your business for 2030.
Here’s how we can help:
✅ Custom Packaging Solutions with High Recycled Content
Whether it’s large load carriers for body parts or precision EPP trays for sensitive electronic components, we develop tailor-made packaging solutions that meet the new EU regulations. We already incorporate a high percentage of recycled plastics (e.g., recycled PP or PE) into many of our products without compromising strength or functionality.
Our FLEXILITY® load carriers, for example, combine lightweight construction and durable reusability with a maximum possible recycled content and full recyclability.
Your benefit: Packaging that is both sustainable and technically reliable.
✅ Technical Expertise and Testing
Our development engineers understand what it takes to transition materials.
We conduct extensive tests on new material formulations and designs to ensure your components remain fully protected.
✅ Compliance & Certification
FEURER not only provides compliant packaging but also delivers the necessary documentation.
For each of our packaging solutions, we can certify the exact percentage of recycled material.
Your benefit: You’ll have the required records to demonstrate compliance to auditors, OEMs, and authorities.
✅ Consulting & Transition Roadmap
We know 2030 is just around the corner, especially considering development and transition timelines.
That’s why we provide comprehensive consulting on the gradual integration of recycled materials.
Together, we’ll create a roadmap: Which packaging should be prioritized? Where can recycled materials be implemented quickly? Where are longer testing phases needed? With our support, you can start the transition early and avoid last-minute supply chain disruptions.
Take Action Now – We’re Here to Help!
2030 is approaching fast. Companies that prepare now will secure their supply chains and gain a competitive edge in sustainability. Don’t let packaging shortages slow down your production—take proactive steps today!
Let’s talk! Contact us today to discuss your needs and find a tailored solution.
Together, we’ll make your packaging ready for 2030. Benefit from our expertise in automotive packaging and innovative sustainable solutions. We look forward to helping you stay ahead of the new regulations!
