Packaging legislation in the UK and what it means for your business
FRIDAY 12th JULY 2024
Sustainable packaging is a key factor in proper waste management
As the importance of the climate crisis becomes more apparent, sustainability legislation is constantly evolving in order to tackle it. These legislations impact every factor of the UK business landscape, from utilities to waste management and even packaging.
Packaging legislation has evolved rapidly in recent years, driven by a concentrated push towards a circular economy to meet environmental concerns.
As such, UK businesses must take the time to get familiar with these regulations so that they can ensure compliance, avoid penalties, and align with sustainable practices.
Thankfully, we’re here to help. Let’s take a closer look at packaging legislation in the UK, and what it means for your business.
Packaging legislation in the UK
Packaging legislation in the UK is primarily governed by two key regulations: the Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations 2015 and the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007.
The UK is also, despite Brexit, aligning with the EU’s Circular Economy Package, which has further implications for business packaging.
The Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations 2015
These regulations set the standards for packaging design and production for UK businesses. Under these rules, packaging must be minimal while still meeting hygiene, safety, and consumer acceptance standards. It must be manufactured to allow for reuse or recovery – including recycling – and must be free from hazardous substances in emissions, ash, or leachate.
The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007
Under these regulations, businesses must take responsibility for the environmental impact of their packaging. Those with an annual turnover of more than £2 million and handling more than 50 tonnes of packaging must register with an approved compliance scheme or directly with the Environment Agency. They must also meet recycling and recovery targets, and submit annual data on the amount and type of packaging handled.
The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
2024 sees the EPR fully implemented for UK businesses, shifting the costs of manufacturing packaging waste from taxpayers to producers. As such, businesses will now bear the full net cost of managing their packaging waste, which incentivises more sustainable packaging.
What does this mean for your business?
Compliance
Businesses must ensure they are registered with the necessary regulatory bodies and are reporting packaging data accurately, in order to ensure compliance. This will help you avoid hefty fines, as well as damage to your business reputation.
Design and production
Take the time to evaluate your packaging, seeing what can be minimised. Reducing materials while enhancing recyclability is optimal, so consider innovate materials and designed to meet regulatory requirements.
Costs
EPR means businesses will now face higher packaging costs, so start investing in sustainable packaging solutions now. This can mitigate these costs in the long run.
Supply chains
Overhauling your packaging isn’t something you can do alone. Work closely with suppliers and partners to make sure any packaging materials meet regulatory standards, and are sustainably sourced. Tackling your packaging collaboratively can lead to lower costs and better compliance.
Consumer engagement
Today’s consumers care about sustainability, so it’s important to be compliant about any changes you’re making. Showing how you’re improving the eco-friendliness of your packaging can enhance your consumer reputation, helping you retain customers who care about environmental responsibility.
Innovation
Regulations aren’t set in stone, and will likely continue to evolve in the coming years. Stay informed about legislative changes and emerging packaging trends so your business can stay ahead of the curve.
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