Insights from Nina Lökfors, EVP, and Mikko Huovinen, Quality & Compliance Manager
On 12 August 2026, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) reached an important milestone. Since then, packaging teams across Europe have been asking new questions about materials, documentation, compliance, recyclability and future packaging strategies.
While much of the conversation has focused on consumer packaging, transport packaging is equally part of the discussion.
At Eltete TPM, we see PPWR as more than a regulatory development. It is an opportunity for companies to review their packaging choices and identify where they can replace inefficiencies, unnecessary materials or outdated practices with solutions that better support operational, regulatory and market requirements. By evaluating how packaging is designed, sourced, documented and managed throughout the supply chain, businesses can turn compliance into a driver for continuous improvement.
To better understand what PPWR means in practice, we spoke with Nina Lökfors, EVP, and Mikko Huovinen, Quality & Compliance Manager.
The conversation is changing
Q: Since PPWR entered into force, what conversations have changed the most with customers?
“Customers are increasingly looking beyond the packaging itself and asking broader questions about material choices, recyclability, documentation and long-term packaging strategies.
We also see growing interest in understanding how packaging can support both operational efficiency and sustainability objectives. In many cases, companies are reviewing transport packaging that has remained unchanged for years and asking whether there are alternative approaches worth exploring.”
Nina Lökfors – EVP, Eltete TPM
What Documentation Should Companies Expect?
Q: What should companies pay attention to from a documentation perspective?
“Documentation is becoming increasingly important.
Companies should ensure they have access to relevant product information, technical specifications, material composition details and supporting documentation from their suppliers.
Transparency helps organisations better understand their packaging choices and supports informed decision-making as requirements continue to evolve.”
Mikko Huovinen – Quality & Compliance Manager, Eltete TPM
Ask Your Packaging Supplier:
- What materials are used?
- What documentation is available?
- What recyclability information can be provided?
- Can technical specifications be supplied?
- Is sustainability information available?
Why Are Companies Re-evaluating Materials?
Q: Do you see growing interest in fiber-based transport packaging?
“Yes, absolutely.
We are seeing increasing interest in fiber-based alternatives, particularly where companies are exploring opportunities to replace traditional packaging materials and components.
However, every application is different. The objective is not to replace materials for the sake of it, but to identify solutions that meet technical requirements while supporting operational and business goals.
The discussion should always start with understanding the application.”
– Nina Lökfors
This philosophy is reflected in Eltete's 3R approach:
Reduce, Replace, Recycle
The company’s sustainability strategy focuses on reducing unnecessary material use, replacing traditional packaging materials where technically feasible, and supporting recycling through fiber-based transport packaging solutions.
Why Fiber-based Transport Packaging Matters
Many PPWR discussions focus on retail packaging.
However, transport packaging influences:
- Logistics efficiency
- Warehousing
- Resource use
- Product protection
- Supply chain performance
Q: How is PPWR influencing transport packaging discussions?
“Historically, much of the public discussion focused on consumer packaging.
We are now seeing increasing attention being given to transport packaging and its role throughout the supply chain. Companies are realizing that packaging decisions influence much more than protection or “simply” packing a product. They can affect logistics efficiency, handling processes, storage requirements and broader operational performance.”
– Nina Lökfors
Transport packaging plays an important role beyond product protection.
How Is Eltete Preparing?
Q: How is Eltete preparing for PPWR?
“At Eltete, we continuously develop our product information, technical documentation and sustainability data to support customers in understanding their packaging choices, with full transparency.
We have publicly available documentation, including PPWR statements, declarations of conformity, sustainability information, FSC certification, ISO 9001 certification and other compliance-related resources.
Preparing for evolving requirements is not only about products. It is equally about transparency, documentation and providing customers with the information they need.”
– Mikko Huovinen
What Should Companies Do Now?
Q: What practical first step would you recommend?
“Start by understanding your packaging portfolio.
Review the materials being used, evaluate available documentation and engage with your suppliers.
PPWR can seem complex, but breaking the process into manageable steps makes it much easier to address.”
– Mikko Huovinen
A Practical Starting Point:
✔ Review packaging materials
✔ Review available documentation
✔ Assess recyclability pathways
✔ Understand transportation impacts
✔ Discuss packaging with suppliers
✔ Start early
Final thoughts
Q: What is one message you would like companies to remember about PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation)?
“PPWR is not only about compliance. It is an opportunity for companies to replace old packaging habits with more efficient approaches. When packaging is viewed strategically rather than as a necessity, businesses often discover opportunities to optimize resources, improve operations, and create long-term value.”
At the end of the shift, it make them wonder:
‘Why didn’t we do this earlier?”
– Nina Lökfors
“Start asking questions today. Understanding your packaging and documentation now, will help you make better decisions tomorrow.”
– Mikko Huovinen
PPWR is raising important questions about how packaging is designed, documented and managed.
At Eltete TPM, we help businesses navigate this change by providing transparent documentation, reliable product information, and guidance for replacing conventional packaging approaches with resource-efficient alternatives that meet both operational and compliance needs.
Learn more about our sustainability approach: https://tpm.eltete.com/sustainability/
