BRUSSELS, BELGIUM — Companies placing packaging on the European market will need to ensure a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is available for packaging first placed on the EU market on or after 12 August 2026, as part of the implementation of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The new requirement is intended to improve packaging compliance and support the EU’s broader objective of reducing packaging waste and promoting more sustainable packaging throughout the supply chain.

What Is a Declaration of Conformity?

A Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is an official document stating that a packaging product complies with the requirements of the PPWR.

The declaration is supported by a technical dossier containing evidence and documentation demonstrating compliance with the regulation.

For the floriculture sector, participants in the Horti Sustainable Packaging Initiative (HSPI) have jointly developed a standardized template and guidance document to help packaging suppliers prepare the required documentation in a consistent format.

Responsibility Depends on Supply Chain Role

Responsibility for preparing the Declaration of Conformity depends on a company’s role within the packaging supply chain.

According to the guidance:

• The manufacturer of the packaging is generally responsible for preparing the declaration.
• Companies that package and market products, such as flowers or plants, may also be considered manufacturers under certain circumstances.
• If packaging carries another company’s name or brand, such as a retailer’s private label, responsibility may rest with that brand owner.

Businesses are encouraged to consult their packaging suppliers to determine what compliance documentation is available.

Suppliers participating in the HSPI initiative can provide documentation using the common industry template.

Documentation Must Be Available Upon Request

The Declaration of Conformity does not need to accompany every shipment.

However, companies must be able to provide the document if requested by a regulatory authority, such as the Netherlands Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT).

According to the guidance, the requested documentation must be made available within 10 business days.

Existing Packaging Stocks Remain Valid

Packaging that was first placed on the EU market before 12 August 2026 is not affected by the new documentation requirement.

Existing inventories of such packaging may continue to be used.

The Declaration of Conformity requirement applies only to packaging first introduced to the EU market on or after 12 August 2026.

Companies uncertain whether specific packaging falls under the previous or new requirements are advised to consult their packaging supplier.

• 10 paper mills
• 90 corrugated products plants and related facilities

Last Updated on 24/07/2026 by Jota Machinery