In February, Lea Salihovic organised a dedicated webinar for EUMEPS members in collaboration with Citeo and elipso, focusing on the latest developments in European standardisation activities relevant to the EPS sector. The session brought together 32 participants for an informative exchange on regulatory and technical progress shaping the future of sustainable and resource-efficient packaging.
A Timely Discussion on European Standardisation
Held on 26 February, the webinar provided a structured and efficient overview of ongoing work at EU level. Particular attention was given to the European Commission’s standardisation request, which plays a critical role in supporting the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) presented by Vincent Colard, leader of TC 261 WG 10 in CEN.
Participants gained insight into how standards might be defined, methodologies, compliance criteria and technical specifications. This early awareness is essential for ensuring that the EPS industry remains aligned with climate-neutral and circular economy objectives.
Key Topics Addressed
The session covered several important areas directly impacting the EPS value chain:
- CITEO Project: An update on the CITEO initiative focused on improving the recycling of EPS household packaging, highlighting innovative and sustainable approaches to material recovery.
- CEN Standardisation Work:
- Overview of the scope and timeline of the European Commission’s request.
- Progress within CEN technical committees relevant to packaging and EPS applications.
- Implications for recyclability and design-for-recycling requirements, supporting more energy-saving and efficient product development.
- EPR and PPWR Requirements: Introduction to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes and the broader regulatory framework under PPWR, outlining their impact on industry practices and compliance strategies.
Supporting a Sustainable and Circular EPS Industry
The webinar demonstrated EUMEPS’ continued commitment to providing its members with accurate, up-to-date information on regulatory developments. By facilitating discussions on standardisation and legislative frameworks, EUMEPS supports the transition towards a more sustainable, high-performance and circular economy in the packaging sector.
Conclusion
This member-exclusive session, led by Lea Salihovic, highlighted the importance of proactive engagement with European standardisation processes. As the regulatory landscape evolves, such initiatives remain essential in ensuring that EPS solutions continue to deliver efficient, resource-efficient and sustainable performance in line with EU objectives.