Synopsis

Current regulations and certification systems in the plastics sector are evolving toward greater traceability, safety, and alignment with the EU’s circular economy goals. The UNE‑EN 15343 standard is central to ensuring the traceability of recycled plastic and verifying the recycled content in products and packaging, a key requirement for applying the tax on non‑reusable plastic packaging established under Law 7/2022.

At the same time, preventing pellet, flake, and plastic powder loss is increasingly important. The Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) scheme, although voluntary, supports preventive measures throughout the value chain and aligns with Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 and the upcoming EU regulation on pellet loss, reinforcing efforts to reduce microplastic pollution.

Packaging reuse is guided by UNE‑EN 13429, which defines the criteria to demonstrate that packaging is designed for multiple reuse cycles—an aspect that gains relevance under the new mandatory reuse targets introduced by the PPWR. Additionally, UNE 53930 helps ensure compliance with requirements for certain plastic bags, including minimum recycled content, thickness, and marking.

The Order TED/646/2023 outlines when mechanically recycled thermoplastics cease to be considered waste, providing legal certainty for recycled plastics. Finally, the PPWR serves as an overarching framework, strengthening the need for harmonized technical standards and reliable certification to ensure legal compliance and enhance competitiveness in the plastics sector.