Dear Esteemed Readers,
We hope this EXPRA Newsletter finds you well and energized as we move through the second quarter of 2025.
This quarter has brought significant momentum in the ongoing evolution of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and circular economy initiatives. Our EXPRA members continue to be at the forefront, shaping impactful policies and driving sustainable practices across Europe.
One of the most notable highlights this quarter was the Expert Group on Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) meeting held online on June 17, 2025. EXPRA’s leadership and experts, alongside key stakeholders, engaged in detailed discussions aimed at supporting the Commission in the effective implementation of the PPWR. Crucial topics included the need for clear definitions around producers and manufacturers to ensure proper application of EPR obligations, as well as the development of waste sorting labels and enhanced reporting formats. These conversations are vital as the Commission plans to release further guidance on PPWR implementation by the end of the summer.
Momentum also continues to build around the upcoming Circular Economy Act, with renewed emphasis on harmonising EPR rules, digitalising reporting systems, and expanding waste management coverage beyond packaging to sectors like construction. The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and various Parliament committees have shared their visions for this landmark legislation, which promises to address fragmentation in waste legislation and foster a more integrated single market for secondary materials.
Further strengthening EXPRA’s role in this ever-evolving landscape, our international alliance recently renewed its Board leadership during the Spring General Assembly. We warmly thank our dedicated members from Verpact (Netherlands), CONAI (Italy), EKO KOM (Czech Republic), Ecoembes (Spain), Greenpak (Malta), Green Dot Norway (Norway), Fost Plus (Belgium), Valorlux (Luxembourg), ECOPACK (Bulgaria), and EEQ (Canada) for their continued commitment and support. We are delighted to welcome Ms. Hester Klein Lankhorst, CEO of Verpact, as the new EXPRA President for the 2025–2027 term. Bringing deep expertise in circular economy and sustainability, Ms. Klein Lankhorst succeeds Mr. Claude Turping, CEO of Valorlux, who we thank warmly for his inspiring leadership. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for EXPRA as we unite to further our shared mission for a more sustainable future worldwide.
In line with ongoing legislative developments, EXPRA has released key recommendations for the Circular Economy Act. These proposals aim to reinforce EPR’s pivotal role in Europe’s circular economy by safeguarding its integrity, addressing challenges such as the rise of online sales, enhancing transparency and consumer engagement, benchmarking CO2 performance, and ensuring fair treatment for producers and materials. Our contributions are designed to help shape effective and balanced legislation that benefits all stakeholders.
Additionally, the European Commission’s evaluation of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive published on July 2, 2025, underscores persistent challenges such as low recycling rates and high volumes of uncollected e-waste. The report calls for improved EPR harmonisation and enhanced resource recovery efforts — priorities that will inform revisions under the Circular Economy Act.
In the coming pages, you will also find a wealth of news and insights from our EXPRA members, showcasing their valuable contributions to advancing EPR and circularity across diverse regions.
As always, EXPRA remains committed to closely monitoring these developments and providing strategic input to ensure EPR frameworks continue to drive sustainability and competitiveness across Europe.
We invite you to explore the full newsletter, where detailed articles, expert insights, and upcoming events highlight EXPRA’s pivotal role in Europe’s circular economy journey.
Warmest regards,
Your EXPRA Team
Joachim, Monika & Valeria