BIS has just published guidance notes on the UK Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations

This guide is addressed to those involved in the placing of packaged goods on the market. This guidance cannot cover every situation and, of course, it may be necessary to carefully consider the relevant legislation to see how it applies in your circumstances. However, if you do follow the guidance it will help you to understand how to comply with the law.

The essential requirements of this regulation are, in summary:
• Packaging volume and weight must be the minimum amount to maintain the necessary levels of safety, hygiene and acceptance for the packed product and for the consumer.
• Packaging must be manufactured so as to permit reuse or recovery in accordance with specific requirements.
• Noxious or hazardous substances in packaging must be minimised in emissions, ash or leachate from incineration or landfill.