Germany: VerpackDG replaces VerpackG, implementing the EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) nationally
What changes
The Verpackungsrecht-Durchführungsgesetz (VerpackDG) — formally the Gesetz zur Anpassung des Verpackungsrechts und anderer Rechtsbereiche an die Verordnung (EU) 2025/40 — entered into force on 12 August 2026, the same day the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) itself took first effect. It replaces the previous Verpackungsgesetz (VerpackG) while keeping the existing dual-system/LUCID registration framework, and adds new extended-producer-responsibility financing rules and rising recycled-content/recycling quotas (e.g. plastics recycling quota rising to 75% by 2028).
Who is affected
All businesses that place filled packaging on the German market for the first time (manufacturers, importers, online sellers using fulfilment), i.e. essentially any company selling packaged goods to German end customers.
Sizes: micro, small, medium, large · Sectors: E-commerce, Retail, Manufacturing · Applies if: We sell online; We sell to consumers (B2C)
What to do
Confirm your existing LUCID registration and system-participation (dual system) contracts remain correctly categorised under VerpackDG's updated packaging types; review the new EPR financing and recycled-content rules that start phasing in from 2026 onward with your compliance provider.
Sources
- BMUKN – Gesetz zur Anpassung des Verpackungsrechts und anderer Rechtsbereiche an die Verordnung (EU) 2025/40 (www.bundesumweltministerium.de)
- Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR) – Registrierung, LUCID (www.verpackungsregister.org)
Last verified 8 September 2026. Informational only, not legal advice.