Summary of EU Packaging Directive 94/62/EC

The European Packaging Directive 94/62/EC forms the basis for the environmental labeling of packaging in the EU. It requires EU countries to take measures to reduce packaging waste and its impact on the environment.

Currently, there are different regulations on packaging labeling in EU member states, especially in Italy and France, where very detailed national labeling rules apply. In addition to the current situation, a new EU Packaging Regulation is in planning, which already shows its impact on existing requirements.

In Italy, material code labeling has been mandatory since January 1, 2023, for all separable components of household and commercial packaging. In addition, household packaging must bear an environmental label that includes material identification, material family, and disposal instructions. This labeling can be applied to various components of the packaging or done digitally.

In France, "Triman" has been mandatory since 2015 as a labeling requirement for products subject to extended producer responsibility. This labeling consists of a logo and harmonized sorting information that varies depending on the product group. Packaging waste separation in France is done by glass and residual packaging.

It is expected that a EU-wide regulation on packaging labeling will come into force in about 3 to 5 years, replacing national labeling guidelines. This EU harmonization is likely to require manufacturer identification and material identification, with the "Nordic Pictograms" system being referenced as a possible basis. This system has already been introduced in various Nordic countries and currently includes 91 pictograms.

Developments in EU packaging labeling are complex and subject to constant changes. We at WineSign.io closely monitor further developments to quickly adapt WineSign.io to new EU regulations.

Currently, WineSign.io fully supports the requirements for the Italian and French markets. With our easy-to-use configuration, you can display the complex Italian and the simpler French recycling information in compliance with the law on the wine landing page.