Legislation
Future
In the UK the government continues to refine and
expand its packaging waste regulations, particularly
in response to growing environmental concerns and
international commitments to reduce plastic waste.
Future measures may include stricter recycling targets,
additional product categories under EPR, and further
incentives for sustainable packaging solutions. One
significant change on the horizon is Simpler Recycling
which will make kerbside recycling more consistent
and accessible across the UK.
Fundamentally the UK’s and Europe’s packaging waste regulations are designed to minimise
the environmental impact of packaging materials by promoting recycling, reducing the amount
of packaging waste generated, and encouraging the reuse of packaging where possible.
These regulations are part of the UK’s broader waste management and environmental
protection strategies and are governed by several key pieces of legislation, and link back
to wider treaty commitments and EU initiatives.
PRNs
Packaging Recovery Notes (PRNs) are UK certificates
proving the recycling of packaging waste. Obligated
producers, including manufacturers, importers,
and retailers handling over 50 tonnes of packaging
annually, must purchase PRNs to meet specific
recycling targets.
The costs reflect the amount of waste processed,
promoting sustainable packaging practices. This
system ensures that producers bear the financial
responsibility, aligning economic incentives with
environmental goals and supporting recycling
infrastructure. It’s crucial for businesses involved
in packaging to be aware and comply.
EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD)
European packaging waste regulations are governed
primarily by the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste
Directive (PPWD), which sets the framework for
managing packaging waste across EU member states.
The UK Packaging Waste Regulations (1997/2007)
These regulations implement the EU Packaging Waste
Directive, setting targets for the recovery and recycling
of packaging waste. Businesses must register with an
agency, meet specific recycling obligations and submit
annual reports.