Why Packaging Waste Matters: New Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Updates
The way we package our goods can significantly contribute to a better planet, so it’s no surprise the spotlight is now on sustainability in packaging practices, with updated regulations on packaging waste set to come in October 2025.
These regulations come in the form of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), a regulatory framework aimed at changing how we approach packaging waste. Whether you’re sourcing materials domestically or relying on imports, this impending scheme is set to reshape your packaging operations.
This blog serves as an informative follow-up to our previous discussions on the topic, providing the latest updates on EPR.
Understanding EPR
At its core, EPR shifts the responsibility for packaging waste management onto producers, requiring them to bear the full cost of collection, sorting, treatment, and recycling. Recent updates to EPR regulations have brought about significant changes, including the introduction of modulated fees. The payment year has also been deferred from October 2024 to October 2025, however, businesses are still required to declare their packaging waste for 2023.
This initiative is driven by the objective of incentivising producers to limit packaging waste and enhance recyclability. This shift inevitably carries financial implications, as costs are predicted to increase. Therefore, it’s important to understand how EPR will influence your packaging operations and how you can proactively mitigate associated expenses.
Aligning Packaging Practices with EPR
EPR encourages producers to rethink packaging choices and design, urging businesses to embrace recyclable materials and eco-design principles while reducing waste. As companies gear up to comply with EPR regulations, it’s clear that innovative solutions will be essential in meeting these new standards effectively.
How can Right Size Packaging Help?
Right Size solutions combine Ribble’s industry-leading Fanfold material and state-of-the-art technology to create the perfect size box for all products. This ensures every item of packaging fits the product exactly, negating the need for void fillers and excess packaging.
We have a simple 4-step process for our Right Size solutions:
1. Enter box style and dimensions.
2. Select how many are required.
3. The box is produced within seconds.
4. Products are packaged in the perfect-sized box.
As well as saving on EPR tax, businesses will save on fuel and transport costs, regain warehouse space and save on labour costs, all resulting in up to 30% savings on packaging costs.
If you would like to discuss EPR in more detail with some of the packaging experts at Ribble Packaging, you can contact us at info@ribble-pack.co.uk or visit our contact page.
