Sustainable Packaging

Paper, Packaging,
and What Comes After Plastic

An informational reference on biodegradable packaging materials, recycled paper grades, and regulatory developments in Poland and across the EU.


Topics Covered

Detailed breakdowns of material standards, local regulations, and practical substitution options for conventional plastic packaging.

Recycled cardboard packaging with recycling symbol
Materials · June 2026

Recycled Paper Grades: What They Mean and How They Are Used

Paper recycling is classified by grade, and those grades determine where the material ends up. An explanation of the most common categories and their industrial applications.

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Packaging in a blue recycling bin
Poland · June 2026

Biodegradable Packaging in Poland: Regulations and Market Overview

Poland transposed the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive into national law, reshaping requirements for food service operators, retailers, and manufacturers.

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Paper packaging materials
Alternatives · June 2026

Sustainable Alternatives to Plastic Packaging for Food and Retail

From kraft paper liners to moulded pulp trays and compostable film, a practical look at what is currently available and where each material performs best.

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What This Resource Covers

Paper Grade Standards

European recovered paper grades are defined under EN 643. Understanding these classifications helps procurement teams match feedstock to end-use requirements.

Polish Regulatory Context

Poland implemented the EU SUP Directive through the Act of 14 April 2023. Obligations differ by product category, operator type, and annual revenue threshold.

Material Properties

Biodegradability and compostability are not interchangeable terms. EN 13432 defines industrial compostability, while EN 14995 covers plastics labelled as compostable.

Food Contact Compliance

Paper packaging in direct contact with food must comply with EU Regulation 1935/2004 on food contact materials, as well as national implementing measures.

Labelling Requirements

The SUP Directive introduced mandatory labelling for certain product categories, including beverage cups and tobacco products with filters.

Extended Producer Responsibility

Under Poland’s EPR system, producers placing packaged goods on the market are responsible for collection and recycling targets linked to their packaging weight.


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