PPWR Copilot
Free Tool

EU Material Code Finder

Look up the correct EU recycling code for your packaging material. Based on Decision 97/129/EC material identification standards.

Select Your Packaging Material

Need a Complete Compliance Dossier?

Get country-specific icons, void-space calculations, and a supplier-ready PDF in 60 seconds.

Start Free Trial

Understanding EU Material Codes

Plastics (01-07)

  • PET 01: Water bottles, food containers
  • HDPE 02: Milk jugs, detergent bottles
  • PVC 03: Pipes, window frames
  • LDPE 04: Plastic bags, squeeze bottles
  • PP 05: Yogurt cups, bottle caps
  • PS 06: Disposable cups, packaging foam
  • OTHER 07: Mixed plastics, bioplastics

Paper & Cardboard (20-22)

  • PAP 20: Corrugated cardboard
  • PAP 21: Non-corrugated cardboard
  • PAP 22: Plain paper

Glass (70-72)

  • GL 70: Clear/colorless glass
  • GL 71: Green glass
  • GL 72: Brown glass

Metals (40-41)

  • FE 40: Steel
  • ALU 41: Aluminium

About Decision 97/129/EC

Decision 97/129/EC establishes the identification system for packaging materials in the European Union. These standardized codes and symbols help consumers and recyclers identify the correct disposal stream for packaging waste. PPWR (Regulation (EU) 2025/40) applies from 12 August 2026 (phased). For packaging labelling, PPWR Article 12 sets an EU harmonised label framework, with the detailed design/specs set by Commission implementing acts. The Article 12 labelling obligation applies from 12 August 2028 or 24 months after those implementing acts enter into force (whichever is later).

More Free Resources

EU Recycling Icons Guide
Complete reference for all EU recycling symbols
France Info-Tri Generator
Create Triman logos and sorting pictograms
PPWR Compliance Software
Automated dossier generation for all EU markets