The report examines Germany’s packaging system, revealing that despite high collection and recycling rates, much of the plastic waste is incinerated, leading to significant environmental costs. The analysis shows that transitioning to a circular economy could cut waste, lower CO2 emissions, and reduce reliance on virgin plastic by 2040. It emphasises the need for a shift towards circular resource management, focusing on waste prevention and material reuse. Achieving this requires political will, industry action, and collaboration between stakeholders.