With the UK and EU tightening the rules on packaging waste, producers face growing pressure to future-proof their operations.
From the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rollout to the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) proposals, 2025 and beyond will see sweeping changes – especially around material use, recyclability and reporting obligations.
But while the legislation is getting tougher, the solution might be simpler than you think: linerless labelling.
The Regulatory Landscape:
UK EPR (2024–2025):
• Producers must pay fees based on the recyclability of their packaging.
• Mandatory data reporting on packaging composition and volumes.
EU PPWR (2025 proposal):
• Ban on unnecessary packaging.
• Mandatory recyclability by 2030.
• Limits on weight and volume of packaging (to reduce overpackaging).
In short: the more sustainable and efficient your packaging is, the lower your compliance costs and risks.
How Linerless Labelling Solves Key Challenges:
- No Backing Waste = Less Landfill
• Traditional self-adhesive labels use a silicone liner – non-recyclable.
• Linerless eliminates this waste stream entirely. - Lower Packaging Weight
• Linerless rolls are lighter and more compact = fewer truckloads.
• Directly supports waste and emissions reduction targets. - Easier Compliance
• More sustainable packaging = lower EPR modulated fees.
• Simplified material use helps with mandatory reporting. - Energy & Efficiency Gains
• Less downtime for roll changes.
• Compatible with automation and high-speed labelling systems.
Real-World Impact:
At Ravenwood, we’ve helped global food producers:
• Reduce label waste by 100%
• Cut packaging weight by up to 40%
• Increase throughput and automate EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) compliant labelling
Recognised for Sustainability: Ravenwood’s APCO Accreditation
Further demonstrating our commitment to sustainable packaging, Ravenwood is proud to be accredited by the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO). This recognition underscores our alignment with global best practices in packaging sustainability – including recyclability, circular design principles and waste minimisation.
As regulatory frameworks evolve internationally, our APCO accreditation provides assurance that Ravenwood solutions meet stringent environmental standards beyond the UK and EU. It’s another reason why leading brands trust us to help them stay ahead of compliance and sustainability goals.
The Takeaway:
As sustainability moves from optional to obligatory, linerless is more than just an eco-upgrade – it’s a strategic move to stay ahead of regulation in terms of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rollout to the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) proposals.
For further information on linerless, why not reach out to our sales and marketing team on +44(0)1284 749144.
