With this newsletter, we regularly provide you with expert insights and updates on environmental compliance.
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Today's topics at a glance
Hungary: Stricter EPR regulations
EU Battery Regulation: Deadline on August 18, 2025
EU: Harmonized packaging labeling
India: New rules and EPR obligations
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Hungary: Stricter EPR regulations
As of April 1, 2025, new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations will come into effect in Hungary. The National Waste Management Authority (OHH) will gain expanded powers of control.
Companies that fail to meet their EPR obligations may face penalties of up to 50% of unpaid amounts.
Tighter controls and penalties
In addition to data reviews, on-site inspections will be carried out. Missing or incorrect reports will result in fines. If multiple product streams are affected, cumulative penalties may apply.
Immediate action required
Companies not yet registered in the EPR system should do so immediately. Ensure that all data reports are correct and fees are paid on time to avoid financial consequences.
Special aspects of Hungary’s EPR system
Hungary uses a concession model: fees are not paid to the tax office, but to the concessionaire MOHU.
Our experts are here to help ensure your compliance – submit your request here.
The new EU Battery Regulation introduces far-reaching obligations for manufacturers and sellers of batteries and battery-powered products. The aim is to improve sustainability, collection, and recycling.
What do you need to do?
By August 18, 2025, companies must:
register with the relevant authority (e.g., Stiftung EAR in Germany),
submit their registration number to platforms like Amazon (Account Health Page),
from August 2025: report sales and pay environmental fees.
Important for foreign manufacturers:
A transition phase begins on April 1, 2025. Companies without an Authorized Representative (AR) based in Germany must re-register. Simply adding an AR to an existing registration is not sufficient. Old registrations will be revoked.
Tip: Apply by the end of May 2025 – processing may take 6–8 weeks.
From August 18, 2025 (or by January 16, 2026 at the latest), each registration must be linked to a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), responsible for all five battery categories – not just portable batteries.
Deutsche Recycling Service GmbH is happy to support you throughout the process.
In March 2025, the EU’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) published a report on the upcoming harmonised waste sortation label under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
From August 2028, all packaging in the EU must carry a harmonised label – or 24 months after the implementing act comes into force, which is expected by August 2026.
First Label Prototype Presented
The initial prototype includes eight material categories (e.g. paper, plastic, glass), with subcategories such as “soft” and “hard” plastics. However, many stakeholders advised against too much detail, warning it could confuse consumers, especially on smaller packages.
The term “residual waste” was also criticised, with a recommendation to replace it with “non-recyclable”, as it does not represent a material category.
Colour & Clarity Matter
Most respondents preferred a black-and-white label to reduce printing costs and environmental impact. Colour coding should be reserved for waste bins, to help consumers easily match packaging and bins.
What’s Next?
A second consultation is planned for May 2025 with a revised design. Final legal requirements are expected in 2026.
Our experts are on hand to help ensure that your organization meets the new requirements. Click here to make a free request and get support.
India: New Rules and EPR Requirements for Packaging
India is among the world’s largest producers of plastic waste. To address growing environmental and health concerns, the government has tightened its Plastic Waste Management rules.
EPR at the core
Manufacturers, importers, and brand owners ("Obligated Entities") are now fully responsible for the entire lifecycle of their packaging – from production to disposal. Gradually increasing recycling targets apply across five packaging categories (e.g., rigid, flexible, compostable, biodegradable plastics).
Companies must:
register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB),
submit action plans,
report annually,
and implement take-back and collection systems.
New requirements from January 2025:
From July 2025, packaging must be labeled with a barcode, QR code, or unique identifier, and this information must be submitted to the authorities. Non-compliance may result in fines of up to 1.5 million rupees (approx. €16,000) as well as daily penalties for continued non-compliance.
If you have any questions about the EPR requirement for packaging in India or need support, our experts will also advise you on country-specific special cases.
On Thursday, May 5, 2025 at 10:30 a.m., our expert Sascha Aue will provide you with a valuable overview of the latest regulations in the areas of WEEE, packaging and batteries.
Find out how you can successfully meet the various requirements and ensure your legal compliance.
Register now and secure your place in the webinar!
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