About the ZSVR

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Why we're here

For the packaging recycling market to work effectively, financial interests have to be aligned. In other words, companies need to cover the costs of recycling their retail, grouped or shipment packaging. As the ZSVR, our task is to establish a level playing field and ensure that everybody is playing by the rules.

Who we are

As a supervisory authority, our job is to create a level playing field and ensure costs are fairly distributed, with the ultimate aim of reducing the environmental impact of packaging waste and ensuring that packaging recycling costs are covered.

What we do

We operate the LUCID Packaging Register, which makes producer responsibility visible. We reconcile packaging volumes. And we publish standards promoting recycling-friendly packaging design.

We currently have 11 job openings.

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Did you know?

New section: ZSVR court decisions at a glance

So far, eight landmark rulings in 2025 – they provide important guidance for practice. With the exception of the decision on the soap bubble box, the administrative courts have confirmed the ZSVR’s classifications in each case. Stay compliant by staying up to date.

System participation – yes or no? The catalogue provides guidance

The ZSVR's catalogue helps companies classify their products' packaging – and shows if it is subject to system participation, i.e. whether they have to pay for recycling or not.

Not all packaging is the same – the type makes the difference

Retail, shipment or transport packaging? Different legal obligations apply depending on packaging type. Understanding the differences helps people meet their packaging law obligations and avoid breaches, providing legal certainty and strengthening compliance.

Explore our help section for more answers.

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