On May 1, 2024, the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) notified to the European Union (EU) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) the draft Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging and Packaging Waste) Regulations 2024. The introduction of this regulation is a crucial step towards the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging across the UK and provides clarity across the supply chain, helping stakeholders prepare for the EPR coming into force next year.
Objective
The aim of the new regulation is to provide consumers with clear and consistent information on recycling through the introduction of a specific label, thereby improving recycling rates and reducing environmental impact, thereby supporting the country’s environmental objectives.
Development of the Regulations
The Regulations have been developed following extensive consultations in May 2019, March 2021 and July 2023, incorporating feedback from a wide range of stakeholders. These Regulations aim to reform the UK’s packaging producer responsibility system and align it with wider environmental objectives.
Changes to the Draft Regulations
The main changes to the Draft Regulations, based on feedback received, include:
- Introduction of recycling targets for the period 2025-2030.
- Provisions to ensure that, unless a Deposit/Return Scheme (DRS) is in place by January 1 2028, producers of beverage containers made of PET plastic, aluminium and steel will be subject to the full range of EPR obligations.
- All labelling requirements will come into force on 1 April 2027.
- Removal of provisions on binned waste and litter payments, now implemented through a separate regulation.
- The Scheme Administrator will provide guidance on the methodology used and the factors considered to assess net disposal costs.
- Review of the definition of household packaging to broaden the criteria for exemption from disposal fee charges.
Scope
The labelling will apply to importers and manufacturers of packaged products in the UK. The regulation covers a range of packaging materials, including plastic, paper, glass, textiles, ceramics and metals, and applies to both primary and shipping packaging.
Implementation Timeline
The regulation will be adopted on 1 January 2025 and will come into force on 1 April 2027 for a gradual transition to the new requirements. However, companies will be able to comply in advance, if they want.
