In 2025, EUMEPS reinforced its evidence-based approach to sustainability by contributing to several high-level studies. A key deliverable was the publication of a new Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) on EPS fish boxes, developed with RDC and several partner associations. The study confirmed that EPS remains the most efficient material for long-distance seafood transport in cold chain logistics, consistently outperforming alternatives in terms of climate impact, energy use, and food safety.

This work provided the technical foundation for EUMEPS’s advocacy during negotiations on getting exemptions for fish boxes under Article 29 in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

In parallel, EUMEPS co-published a comparative LCA on protective packaging for white and brown goods, in cooperation with NEPSA and the TNO Institute. The study evaluated the environmental performance of EPS, cardboard, moulded pulp, and EPP in the transport of items such as televisions and washing machines.

EPS clearly outperformed other materials by reducing product damage and achieving the lowest overall environmental footprint across all impact categories.

At international level, EUMEPS contributed to the UNEP Global Plastic Treaty negotiations, through its membership in the Global EPS Sustainability Alliance (GESA). The fifth round of talks (INC-5.2) took place at the United Nations Office in Geneva and brought together participants from 184 countries.