Technical recommendations on packaging categories to support the design for recycling assessment of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation Proposal : assessing the feasibility of clustering packaging categories based on stakeholders' feedback and statistical analysis of similarities

The aim of this study is to develop technical recommendations for a possible amendment of Table 1 - Annex II of the EC proposal for a Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, to support the co-decision process. The main objective is to consider reducing the number of packaging categories referred to in Article 6 of the Regulation. To this end, the feasibility of aggregating some of the packaging categories has been assessed. The methodological approach followed was based on a statistical analysis to quantify similarities across selected categories. The data used as basis for the analysis have been retrieved from available design for recycling guidelines and from evidence submitted by experts in a written stakeholder consultation. The analysis was complemented by a critical appraisal of results, thereby also accounting for evidence received by stakeholders. The proposal also includes recommendations on possible integration of missing packaging categories or formats in Table 1 of Annex II. The study led to the recommendation to reduce the number of packaging categories from 30 to 22, by merging mono-material and composite packaging for glass, steel and aluminium (distinguishing between rigid and semi-rigid or flexible aluminium packaging); plastic packaging categories that differed only by colour; and PS and XPS plastic packaging. A new category for biodegradable plastic packaging is proposed to be added to the table.