From May 2025, businesses across the UK will face new responsibilities under the government’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging scheme.
The updated rules mean that companies involved in supplying or importing packaging must provide detailed data and cover certain costs linked to the management of packaging waste.
These changes are part of the government's wider efforts to reduce environmental impact and improve recycling rates across the country.
While many deadlines for registration and initial data reporting fell in April 2025, obligations continue throughout the year, with further reporting, payments, and compliance checks expected.
Who must report and what data is required
Both large and small producers are required to report on the packaging they place on the UK market.
This includes not only the volume and type of materials used, but also whether the packaging is considered recyclable for household collections.
The methodology used for this assessment is known as the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM), which categorises packaging based on how easily it can be recycled. This information plays a role in calculating the fees producers will be expected to pay.
Data reporting must be accurate and timely. Failure to comply may result in enforcement action by the Environment Agency, which is tasked with monitoring submissions and ensuring compliance through its Packaging Producer Responsibility Monitoring Plan 2025.
Fees, registration, and compliance requirements
Under the EPR scheme, producers must pay a range of fees. These include charges for waste management, contributions towards the costs of the scheme administrator (PackUK), and standard registration fees paid to the environmental regulator.
The waste management fee is not fixed. It depends on the recyclability of the packaging in question. Packaging that is easier to recycle will attract lower fees, while packaging that is difficult to process will incur higher charges.
Producers must also fulfil recycling obligations, which may involve acquiring Packaging Recovery Notes (PRNs) or Packaging Export Recovery Notes (PERNs).
Registration is a legal requirement. Businesses must register their organisation, submit the required data, and ensure that payments are made in line with the timetable outlined by regulators.
Impact on local authorities and ongoing monitoring
Local authorities are expected to benefit financially under the new EPR system. Payments from producers will help cover the cost of managing packaging waste, particularly for materials collected from households.
The Environment Agency will oversee compliance, focusing on data accuracy, the appropriate use of PRNs and PERNs, and the timely submission of all reports and fees.
Monitoring efforts are detailed in the 2025 compliance plan and include checks on producer submissions, recyclability assessments, and PRN markets.
At the same time, the Plastic Packaging Tax remains in place. This tax applies to packaging that contains less than 30% recycled plastic and operates separately from the EPR scheme, though many businesses will be subject to both sets of rules.
For businesses seeking guidance, the GOV.UK website remains the central source of official information on EPR for packaging.
