What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a significant shift in policy, that holds producers responsible for the environmental impact of their products.
So what does that mean for the packaging industry?
Well, when it comes to packaging, it means producers are responsible for the collection, sorting and recycling of their packaging waste.
With new collection and reporting requirements related to packaging in the UK, it’s essential for organisations within these markets comply with the relevant data collection, reporting requirements and deadlines to avoid costly fines and levies.
In a broader sense, EPR is a powerful opportunity for producers to create a more circular and sustainable packaging system. But in order to do so, it’s imperative for businesses to understand the details and take proactive steps in ensuring they remain compliant and contribute to a better environmental impact.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) applies to any UK organisation (exc. charities) who:
- Is an individual business, subsidiary or group.
- Had an annual turnover of £1 million or more.
- Handles over 25 tonnes of packaging annually.
This includes importers, manufacturers and retailers.
Packaging broadly covers any material used to protect or contain goods, even those intended to be filled at point-of-sale.
It is the responsibility of any organisation that falls under EPR regulations to provide detailed data on their packaging. That includes material type, weight and recyclability information.
New EPR regulations mean that the producer is now responsible for the full cost of managing and recycling their packaging waste.
The cost is done through fees based on the Recyclability Assessment Methodology.
Using that model of fee calculation, EPR incentivises producers to focus and transitions on more sustainable and recyclable packaging.
Not only does that keep their costs low, it has a considerable environmental impact overall.
What is RAM?EPR isn’t just about holding producers financially responsible.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) encourages greater transparency across the supply chain. Providing more information on packaging production, waste and treatment for both producers and consumers.
This transparency invites a more collaborative environment between producers, government and other stakeholders to achieve shared environmental goals.
EPR also pushes businesses towards adopting far more sustainable practices, moving towards a circular economy model – ultimately reducing waste and maximising resources.
The most crucial part of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is making sure you’re compliant.
Failure to comply with EPR regulation can result in significant financial penalties, including fines and levies and even criminal prosecution.
Environment Agencies are actively monitoring compliance efforts and have the power of enforcement against organisations that are failing to meet their obligations.
Compliance schemes, such as Smart Comply, work as a partner and help businesses to navigate the complexities of EPR. This ensure that data is accurately reported and complies with regulations, reducing the risk of penalties and criminal prosecution.