Three S&D MEPs have asked the European Commission whether it plans to propose legislation to phase out polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in pharmaceutical packaging, citing the material's non-recyclability and conflict with EU circular economy goals. In a written parliamentary question dated 4 June 2026, Krzysztof Śmiszek, Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus and Robert Biedroń note that Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste exempts medicinal product packaging from mandatory recycling requirements to protect medicine supply security and patient safety, but that this exemption results in large volumes of unrecycled PVC waste. Because the EU pharmaceutical market is fully harmonised, individual Member States cannot act alone.
whether the Commission plans to revise pharmaceutical legislation to drive a systemic shift from PVC to safe, recyclable alternatives; whether it intends, together with the European Medicines Agency (EMA), to introduce simplified registration procedures for manufacturers switching to greener packaging; and whether EU financial or research support is planned for developing innovative green packaging technologies for the pharmaceutical industry.
The question signals a push for stronger environmental regulation in the pharmaceutical sector, pitting circular economy objectives against the current regulatory stability that prioritises supply security. If the Commission responds favourably, it could open the door to new compliance costs for drug manufacturers but also reduce PVC waste and support innovation in sustainable packaging. The Commission typically replies within six weeks; its answer will indicate whether it sees a mandate for legislative action or prefers voluntary industry measures.