Packaging Recycling- here comes the ￡crunch....

I remember sitting in a CEO meeting a couple of years ago saying if you don't know what EPR means then now is the time to find out..... The Government’s resources and waste programme will change retailers’ responsibilities for recycling and reusing waste. It covers various areas, including packaging, cans and bottles and waste electricals - with more, like textiles - to come.

Last week Government confirmed timetables for extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging and a deposit return scheme (DRS) for bottles and cans. It hasn't confirmed next steps for the?waste electrical and electronic scheme (WEEE).

These are very expensive and complex initiatives and we'll be working with our members and Government to ensure they are delivered as consistently, effectively and efficiently as possible.

Packaging EPR: going ahead as planned, with retailers responsible for increased fees from October 2025

EPR has a vital role in driving up recycling rates and cutting unnecessary packaging BUT we urgently need a comprehensive strategy for how the billions of pounds in fees will be used to boost recycling and support the circular economy - currently there's no guarantee they will be ring-fenced. Ultimately, customers and businesses will pay for these improvements through increased costs which is why it's essential EPR delivers the step change in recycling that justifies its ￡2bn a year cost.

Government also published illustrative base fees as first indication of actual costs so retailers and producers can assess the specific impact on your business. These are only indicative and the Government plan to refine the estimates over the next year. The current range of possible fees is extremely large they and aim to publish revisions in September with final estimates in October. Read more about fees here

Modulated fees have now been confirmed to come into force in 2026. These will reflect the differing environmental impact of packaging: materials with the highest environmental impact paying the highest fees - so you wont be able to impact your costs unless you reduce volumes before then.

Deposit Return Scheme (DRS):

Defra also confirmed that DRS will be implemented as previously proposed by October 2027.

This is a very tight timetable and, reflecting on the problems in Scotland, it should remain flexible as necessary; the key is to deliver the best scheme. There will be further secondary legislation over the Autumn and we continue to work with our members both to shape the proposals and push for a consistent UK scheme, currently Wales remains the only country which wants to include glass bottles in the scheme.

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

There is no further update to the expected WEEE reforms as the Government is still considering the consultation feedback they received before the election. On a positive note, they've listened to our calls for sequencing the introduction of policies to soften the burden on retailers.

So whatever you sell, there will be an impact somewhere. My advice is get prepared.