Packaging

Version 2.0.0 of this PCR was published on 2026-07-17.

For question on the PCR, please contact the PCR Moderator Anna Bortoluzzi.

For general questions on the updating process for PCRs, please contact the Secretariat .

This document provides Product Category Rules (PCR) for the assessment of the environmental performance of packaging products. It aims to be the main way to develop and register EPDs in the International EPD System and it refers to the International ISO standard developed for packaging.

This document is developed through a multi-code (UN CPC codes) and multi-material approach. The framework of the document is based on the main functions of packaging as stated with the ISO definition. "Packaging": product to be used for the containment, protection, handling, delivery, storage, transport and presentation of goods, from raw materials to processed goods, from the producer to the user or consumer, including processor, assembler or other intermediary.

The listed CPC codes constitute a non-exhaustive list. Other CPC codes may also be relevant for this PCR.

This PCR has been developed with the modular approach regarding the life cycle stages and the system boundaries definition. The declared unit is based on technical characteristics relevant for any packaging purpose, extendable to functional unit to include intended use, use phase and end-of-life.

• If this document is used for consumer packaging (packaging constituting, with its contents, a sales unit for the final user or consumer at the point of retail) it may be used for an EPD for packaging products based on a functional unit, cradle-to-grave;
• If this document is used for distribution packaging (packaging designed to contain one or more articles or packages, or bulk material, for the purposes of transport, handling and/or distribution), it may be used for an EPD for packaging products based on a declared unit, cradle-to-gate or cradle-to-gate with options.

Other already issued PCRs on the packaging sector can potentially remain valid as stand- alone PCRs and they can be gradually made compliant with this PCR.

The PCR document may be downloaded in the EPD Portal. It is free to register in the EPD Portal.

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