Perspectives for 2025

Accelerating EUMEPS’s Digital Transformation

Focus on the European Insulation Platform Campaign

Supporting Global Initiatives: The Plastic Treaty

Driving Growth Across the EPS Value Chain

Conclusion

Accelerating EUMEPS’s Digital Transformation

In 2025, EUMEPS will roll out a new digital programme aimed at enhancing its online presence and delivering high-value, strategic content to its members, policymakers, and the broader public.

This programme will include:

Dynamic multimedia campaigns to communicate the benefits of EPS in packaging and insulation more effectively.
Expanded content initiatives across EUMEPS’s websites, including thought leadership articles, industry updates, and case studies.
Increased engagement on social media platforms, with tailored content designed to strengthen EUMEPS’s outreach to Brussels-based stakeholders, national policymakers, and industry leaders.

By embracing innovation and digital tools, EUMEPS will continue to position itself as a leading, go-to source of information on EPS in Europe, driving awareness, influence, and engagement acrossthe industry.

Focus on the European Insulation Platform Campaign

In collaboration with PU Europe, Exiba, and EURIMA, EUMEPS will launch a high-profile communication campaign in early 2025 under the European Insulation Platform. This initiative will highlight the importance of insulating Europe’s building stock to achieve energy efficiency goals in a material-neutral manner.

The campaign will focus on:

Raising awareness about the critical role of renovating building envelopes.
Promoting insulation as a proven, cost-effective solution for achieving the ambitious targets set under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).

Through this platform, EUMEPS will amplify its voice, uniting stakeholders to advocate for energy renovation as the cornerstone of Europe’s sustainability transition.

Preparing for Regulatory Challenges

2025 will bring several key regulatory milestones that will directly impact the EPS industry. EUMEPS will prioritise engagement and advocacy to address the following challenges:·

PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation): EUMEPS will continue to advocate for balanced, science-based solutions, particularly for EPS fish boxes, which play a critical role in reducing food waste and supporting circularity.
Microplastics Regulation: Ensuring that EPS industry standards align with new legislative requirements while safeguarding innovation and competitiveness.·
EPBD Implementation: Supporting national governments as they draft their renovation plans, reinforcing the importance of insulation in reducing energy consumption and achieving climate neutrality.·
End-of-Waste Criteria for EPS (WFD): With an implementing act for the Waste Framework Directive (WFD) anticipated next year, EUMEPS will ensure that EPS waste can be officially recognised as a new product. This will facilitate the harmonised, cross-bordertransport of secondary EPS, reducing unnecessary burdens for businesses and promoting recycling confidence across the EU.·
Dangerous Substances Delegated Act (CPR): EUMEPS will closely monitor the development of this delegated act under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), ensuring the EPS industry remains compliant while advocating for pragmatic solutions that protectmarket access.·
Green Claims Directive: With the anticipated rollout of the Green Claims Directive, EUMEPS will work to ensure that EPS’s recyclability, resource efficiency, and environmental benefits are accurately represented, safeguardingthe industry’s reputation and competitive standing.

By providing expertise, data, and strategic input, EUMEPS will work to ensure that the industry’s contributions are recognised and reflected in EU policy.

Supporting Global Initiatives: The Plastic Treaty

EUMEPS will remain actively involved in the ongoing negotiations for the Global Plastic Treaty, ensuring EPS’s role as a recyclable material is acknowledged at an international level. By working alongside EU Member States, international stakeholders, and industry partners, EUMEPS will continue advocatingfor science-based, balanced measures to address plastic pollution.

The organisation will also build on the momentum from the UNEP report recognising EPS’s recyclability in transport packaging, further solidifying its place in a circular economy.

Driving Growth Across the EPS Value Chain

In 2025, EUMEPS will reinforce its commitment to driving growth and innovation across the EPS value chain, supporting members as they navigate new opportunities and challenges while adapting to the evolving regulatory and market landscape.

Key priorities for the year include:

Attracting new members to expand EUMEPS’s influence and strengthen its voice as the unified representative of the EPSindustry.
Increasing visibility for women within the organisation, recognising and promoting their contributions to leadership, innovation,and the broader goals of EUMEPS.-
Building stronger relationships with EU regulators, enhancing collaboration and ensuring EPS’s role is representedeffectively in regulatory discussions.-
Adopting a more scientific approach to EUMEPS’s work, incorporating data-driven insights and evidence-based advocacyto further establish EPS as a sustainable and essential material.-
Promoting EPS solutions in packaging and construction as key tools for meeting Europe’s Green Deal objectives.-
Showcasing industry innovations, such as improved recycling technologies and circular business models, to highlight EPS’scontribution to sustainability and climate goals.-
Facilitating knowledge-sharing and collaboration through events, webinars, and technical working groups, fostering unityand progress within the EPS industry.

Conclusion

2025 will be a year of ambition and action for EUMEPS. With a focus on digital transformation, regulatory engagement, and industry growth, EUMEPS will continue to lead the way in advocatingfor EPS as a solution for a circular, climate-neutral Europe. By uniting its members, partners, and stakeholders, EUMEPS is ready to shape a future where EPS remains irreplaceable.