Declaration of Conformity now required for new packaging

The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces new rules for packaging. Through this regulation, Europe aims to reduce packaging waste and make packaging more sustainable. The rules also apply to everyone in the floriculture sector who uses, sells, or places packaging on the market. As of today, a Declaration of Conformity must be available for all packaging that is placed on the European market for the first time on or after 12 August 2026.

What is a Declaration of Conformity?
A Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is an official document stating that a packaging item meets the requirements of the PPWR. The declaration includes a technical dossier containing supporting information and evidence.

The participants in the Horti Sustainable Packaging Initiative (HSPI) have jointly developed a practical template and a manual specifically for the floriculture sector. With this template, packaging suppliers can record the necessary information in a uniform and clear manner. Growers, buyers, and other companies in the supply chain can then use this information to demonstrate that the correct documentation is available.

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What is your role?
Whether you are personally responsible for a declaration of conformity depends on your role in the supply chain. The manufacturer of the packaging material is responsible for drawing up the declaration. You may be considered a manufacturer if you package and market a product (flowers or plants). If the name or brand of another party, such as a retailer, appears on the packaging, then the responsibility may lie with that party.

In many cases, you can request the necessary documentation from your packaging supplier. They should be able to indicate which documentation is available or will become available for their packaging. If your supplier participates in HSPI, they can use the joint template and explain which documentation is available.

How does it work?
You do not need to include the declaration of conformity with every delivery order as a matter of course. However, the document must be available if a regulatory authority, such as the Netherlands Environmental and Transport Inspectorate (ILT), requests it. You must then be able to provide this information within ten business days. Much of this information will be made available through packaging suppliers.

Do you have packaging in stock that was first placed on the EU market by the packaging supplier before August 12, 2026? If so, you may continue to use these stocks. The new requirement applies only to packaging first placed on the EU market from today, 12 August 2026.

If you’re unsure whether a piece of packaging falls under the old or new regulations, please contact your packaging supplier.