Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does ECOPV-EU do?
ECOPV-EU provides producer responsibility compliance services for companies selling into Germany and the EU. We handle registration, reporting, and ongoing compliance under WEEE, Battery Act, Packaging Act (VerpackG), and Single-Use Plastics (SUP) regulations.
Which products fall under the EPR compliance category?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) applies to electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), batteries, packaging materials, and single-use plastic products placed on the German market.
What is the Packaging Act (VerpackG)?
The German Packaging Act (Verpackungsgesetz) requires manufacturers and distributors who place packaged goods on the German market to register with the ZSVR authority and participate in a dual system for packaging take-back and recycling.
Will the Packaging Act be repealed?
No. The Packaging Act remains in force. It is being complemented by the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which will introduce additional requirements across all EU member states.
What is PPWR & VerpackDG?
The PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) is the new EU packaging regulation and, together with the VerpackDG (Packaging Implementation Act), will form a regulatory framework starting in August 2026: The PPWR sets the substantive rules for all of Europe (e.g., recycling rates, design, minimum recycled content requirements, and uniform labeling), while the German implementing law, the VerpackDG, is expected to regulate implementation in Germany – such as responsibilities, inspections by the ZSVR, and fines.
Who will officially be considered a "producer" under the new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) starting in 2026?
It is the party that first makes the packaged goods available in the respective EU country. New: Anyone shipping directly from a non-EU country to end customers in the EU must have an authorized representative in the destination country who assumes EPR liability.
Will I still be able to use up my old boxes in 2026?
Stock that was already "placed on the market" (i.e., made available for sale) before August 12, 2026, may be sold off. Stock held solely in the company's own warehouse that has not yet been registered as a product-packaging unit could become a problem. This is because all new products manufactured after that date must meet the strict "design for recycling" criteria.
Will there be a ban on "empty space" in 2026?
Yes, "sending air" is becoming expensive and illegal. The 50% empty space quota applies to shipping packaging in e-commerce as well as to consolidated shipments. Important: The ban on artificially inflating volume with fillers (air cushions, paper) is a key aspect of material minimization.
Who is officially considered a "manufacturer" under the ElektroG?
It is not just those who manufacture the products. Anyone who imports electrical appliances into Germany or, as a foreign retailer, ships them directly to end customers is also considered a manufacturer.
What changes will take effect at the recycling center on January 1, 2026?
The counter model will become mandatory. Consumers will no longer be allowed to dispose of battery-powered devices in collection bins on their own. Disposal must be handled by trained staff at a drop-off counter.
Do kiosks and gas stations now have to take back vapes?
Yes, starting July 1, 2026! Single-use e-cigarettes must be accepted for return free of charge at every point of sale – no matter how small the store is.
What is the new recycling logo?
Starting in July 2026, a standardized, two-color logo indicating the acceptance of used equipment will be mandatory: Physical stores: At least A4 size, clearly visible (e.g., at the entrance). Online: Prominently displayed on the homepage or directly within the checkout process. On the shelf: Large retailers must also display the "crossed-out trash can" symbol directly at the point of sale.
Single-Use Plastic Fund Act (EWKFondsG): Who Will Be Considered a "Manufacturer" in 2026?
What matters is not who manufactures the product, but who first introduces it to the German market. This applies to: Domestic manufacturers and bottlers. Importers who bring goods into Germany from abroad. Foreign online retailers who ship directly to German consumers.
Which products will cost me money in 2026?
The tax applies to, among other things: Food containers for immediate consumption (to-go). Paper and plastic bags and packaging. Drink cups and containers (up to 3 liters). Lightweight plastic shopping bags. Wet wipes, balloons, and tobacco filters. New as of 2026: Fireworks are now also subject to the levy, provided they contain plastic.
When is the deadline for submitting the report for 2025?
Mark May 15, 2026, in red on your calendar! By this deadline, the exact weight (in kilograms) of the products sold in the previous year must be reported via the DIVID platform.
Is there a minimum amount threshold?
No. The requirement applies starting with the first gram.
Battery Implementation Act (BattDG): What has changed since 2025?
The new BattDG has been in effect since 2025. It supplements the EU Battery Regulation at the national level. Focus: The regulation no longer covers only disposal, but the entire life cycle (circular economy). Recycling: Significantly higher recovery rates apply to raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
Who is affected?
It doesn't just affect the factories that manufacture batteries. The following are considered manufacturers under the BattDG: Producers: Anyone who manufactures batteries in Germany. Importers: Anyone who imports batteries (including those in devices such as laptops, e-bikes, or power tools) into Germany from non-EU countries (e.g., China or the U.S.). Quasi-manufacturers: Anyone who sells batteries under their own brand name (private labeling). Foreign retailers without a German branch (in this case, the appointment of an authorized representative is mandatory).
Which batteries are regulated?
Since 2025, the law has distinguished between five categories: 1. Portable batteries: Household batteries, button cells. 2. LMT batteries: "Light Means of Transport," e.g., for e-bikes and e-scooters. 3. Starter batteries: Conventional automotive batteries. 4. Industrial batteries: Stationary storage systems, backup systems. 5. Electric vehicle batteries.
Which compliance steps are mandatory?
To remain eligible for sale, two requirements must be met: 1. Registration: Every manufacturer must have a valid registration number (Batt-Reg. No.) with the ear Foundation. Without this number, an immediate sales ban applies. 2. Take-back system: Registration alone is not sufficient. You must join an approved producer responsibility organization (OfH) (e.g., ECOPV-EU). This organization will handle the collection and recycling on your behalf.