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9. Podium Event on 9.9.2026 in Hamburg at the Mövenpick Hotel

Increasing compliance requirements in times of protectionism and stagnant growth. Will this turn out well for European SMEs?

In our panel discussion, we will connect the topics of Extended Producer Responsibility and Product Responsibility with the current political and economic situation and examine the challenges for companies from different perspectives. Free of charge for VERE members!

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News

German Packing Law: Prevention organisation successfully blocked!

The draft bill for the German Packaging Act Implementation Act (VerpackDG) had proposed the instalment of a central prevention organisation, which was ultimately rejected following widespread criticism. VERE also successfully lodged a protest against such an organisation, as it would have likely resulted in incurred additional costs and significant bureaucratic effort for SMEs.
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The Packaging Law Implementation Act: Background, Consequences, Criticism

The new German Packaging Law Implementation Act focuses on increased recycling, reusable packaging and funding for waste prevention. Political and civil society stakeholders are calling for further, stricter measures, but various companies fear this will lead to higher costs, more bureaucracy and planning uncertainty. VERE advocates for more practical solutions and reduced burdens.
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Suspension with side effects – No fair competition without authorised representatives

Proposals from the European Commission envisage suspending authorised representatives to reduce bureaucracy and strengthen competitiveness. Initially, this may seem like a sensible proposal, but it ultimately paves the way for unlawful competition from third countries. VERE e.V. is strongly committed to keeping authorised representatives as gatekeepers for effective enforcement and has submitted a comprehensive statement to prevent the suspension of authorised representatives.
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Will the EU impose a levy on electrical appliances for retailers and producers?

The European Commission plans to introduce a levy on uncollected waste electrical and electronic equipment to promote recycling. However, the European Court of Auditors has criticised the lack of reliable data used to calculate the corresponding proposal.
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Recycling targets under the EU Packaging Regulation: Study identifies major hurdles for plastic packaging producers

A study commissioned by BKV GmbH questions the feasibility of the reusable targets set out in the EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) for numerous types of plastic packaging. A lack of data, economic uncertainties and technical hurdles could make implementation significantly more difficult for producers.
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Reform of producer responsibility in the EU: call for split EPR fees

Zero Waste Europe (ZWE) criticises the fact that repair and reuse measures are mostly financed by public funds. According to the polluter-pays principle, producers should be asked to contribute more.
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No ban on disposable vapes – but stricter flavouring rules create uncertainty

Producers are currently facing ongoing regulatory uncertainty. Whilst the sale of disposable vapes remains permitted in Germany for the time being, certain flavourings could soon be phased out. At the same time, a general ban continues to be debated politically and is a key concern for environmental and health organisations.
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Recycling-friendly packaging: Producers seen responsible for meeting recycling goals

Despite high recycling rates, the German recycling system still has room for improvement. To improve these rates, producers are expected to make a significant contribution in future through sustainable and recycling-friendly packaging design.
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LithiumUnites for Global Recycling Day

Producers and sellers are invited to request a free aid package containing instructions and materials for the safe disposal of batteries, especially for German consumers.
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First-hand insider information

On the one hand, the EU Commission is passing complex legislation that places unprecedented demands on the safety and sustainability of products and requires companies to behave with integrity in many respects. On the other hand, it has set itself the task of reducing the administrative burden on SMEs by 35% by 2029, thus following a "compass for competitiveness". All this is happening at a time when marketplaces from third countries are making a massive push into the European market and ignoring almost all requirements for safe and sustainable products. As a VERE member, you have the unique opportunity this year to obtain first-hand insider information and connect with high-profile speakers from authorities and affected companies at the 9th VERE e.V. panel event on 9 September 2026 at the Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg/Germany, free of charge. There are 150 spots available. The event will be simultaneously interpreted into English. The definitive programme is currently being finalised. Secure your place now! Please have your VERE membership number ready to access the registration form.
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