The new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) has been in effect since August 12, 2026. And suddenly, they’re back in the spotlight: the small shampoo, shower gel, and body lotion bottles in hotel bathrooms. However, they don’t have to disappear right away. The ban won’t take effect until January 1, 2030.  IMAGE: Pexels (Hotel Amenities as They Shouldn’t Look)

Starting in 2030, lodging establishments will no longer be allowed to offer certain single-use micro-packages for cosmetics, hygiene, and toiletries. The regulation is part of a much larger package of measures designed to reduce packaging waste and promote reuse. For hotels and the hospitality industry, the PPWR will therefore bring further changes in the coming years.

Long Since Part of Everyday Life at Green Pearls®

For Green Pearls® partners, however, saying goodbye to mini shampoo bottles is no big change. Avoiding single-use packaging in the bathroom has been standard practice in our network for many years. Refill and dispenser systems, bar soaps, and other solutions reduce packaging that ends up in the trash after just a few uses.

The next step: What goes into the bottle?

Our focus doesn’t end with packaging: Our partners also pay attention to what’s inside soap dispensers and the like—for example, certified natural cosmetics, products from regional manufacturers, formulations free of microplastics, and so on.

These small bottles are just one part of the waste generated by a hotel. To learn how accommodations reduce packaging and waste in other areas—and what you can do yourself while traveling—check out our article on Waste in Tourism and Zero-Waste Travel.