JRC Proposes Harmonised Waste-Sorting Labels Under the PPWR

The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) has published a detailed technical proposal outlining how EU-wide harmonised waste-sorting labels could be implemented under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). The proposal sets out a material-based labelling system, applied consistently to both packaging and waste receptacles, and provides the strongest indication yet of the direction of travel for future packaging labelling and compliance across Europe.

This article provides a concise summary of the 247-page proposal, highlighting the key findings and recommendations.

The JRC recommends a material-based, EU-wide waste-sorting labelling system applied to both packaging and waste receptacles, built around the following principles:

• Material-based labelling
  Labels should identify the material composition of packaging (e.g. glass, paper, rigid plastic), rather than bin names or disposal destinations.
• Matching principle
  Identical labels should appear on packaging and the corresponding waste receptacle, allowing consumers to sort waste by visual matching.
• Harmonised but flexible framework
  A single EU system that avoids national divergence while allowing limited flexibility to reflect different collection infrastructures.
• Behaviourally tested visual design
  Standardised pictograms supported by colour coding, minimal text, and accessibility features. Text on packaging should be limited; optional country-specific text may appear on receptacles. Digital tools (e.g. QR codes) may provide supplementary information.
• Defined granularity
  The system specifies which materials require distinct labels (e.g. rigid vs flexible plastics; coloured vs uncoloured glass), balancing clarity with practical usability.
• Guidance for complex packaging
  Clear rules are set out for multi-component, composite, compostable, residual, and hazardous packaging, as well as interaction with deposit return schemes and other labels.

The final label proposal

Figure ES 1 (prototype 2) shows the final label proposal with colour and text, incorporating the research findings and PPWR compatibility. The labels are available in colour (the JRC’s preferred option), as well as in monochrome versions, with or without text.

The JRC recognises that implementation will involve short-term transition costs, including packaging redesign and relabelling of waste receptacles. However, these costs are expected to be offset over time through improved recycling quality, reduced contamination, greater regulatory certainty, and lower long-term compliance complexity. The report also highlights the importance of public communication campaigns, continued stakeholder engagement, and flexibility to accommodate future changes.

The JRC recommends adopting a single, harmonised, material-based waste-sorting label system across the EU, supported by standardised visual design and clear application rules. While not legally binding, the proposal provides a robust evidence base for the forthcoming PPWR implementing acts and signals the future direction of packaging labelling and compliance across Europe.

Read and download the full consultation paper here.