Packaging Compliance – What’s in store for 2025?

Dan Pegram

Published: 23/12/2024

Starting 1 January 2025, the 2007 Packaging Waste Regulations will officially be replaced by the UK’s new EPR framework. This landmark legislation ensures that producers bear the financial responsibility for managing the packaging waste they generate. This shift aims to improve recycling rates and reduce the environmental impact of packaging materials.

Under the new EPR regulations, producers supplying packaging designed for end use by households will fund the full lifecycle management of that packaging. This includes:

Data Reporting Requirements: Producers must submit accurate data on packaging placed on the market. H2 2024 data submissions are due by 1 April 2025. Timely and precise reporting will help avoid increased fees and penalties.

Household Waste Disposal Charges: Producers are now responsible for the costs associated with disposing of packaging that enters the household waste stream. Charges are based on the weight and type of materials handled.

The DRS legislation is set to take effect, aiming to boost recycling rates for beverage containers. Consumers will pay a deposit on eligible containers, which can be reclaimed upon returning the packaging for recycling.

While the draft RAM was published in 2024, its final version is expected early in 2025. This methodology will play a critical role in determining recycling targets and calculating producer obligations.

The Packaging Recovery Note (PRN) market—a key component of compliance—saw volatility in 2024, and this trend may continue into 2025. Key considerations include:

Material-Specific Challenges: While most materials saw oversupply in 2024, glass and plastic faced tight markets, leading to price increases. These dynamics could persist in 2025, impacting compliance costs.

Delayed PRN Obligations: The Environment Agency’s delayed publication of H1 2024 PRN obligations has created uncertainty in the market.

Producers must adhere to the following deadlines to maintain compliance:

• January 2025: Submit H2 2024 packaging and sales data. Membership and Environment Agency fee registration invoices will be issued.
• 1 April 2025: Legal deadline for submitting H2 2024 EPR data.
• October 2025: Household Waste Disposal Charge invoices issued by the scheme administrator.

Pro Tip: Avoid costly late fees by submitting accurate data on time. Late submission fees now stand at £332, with resubmission fees increasing to £430.

Audit Your Packaging Data: Ensure your data reporting systems are accurate and compliant with the new regulations.

Budget for New Charges: Account for the Household Waste Disposal Charges and potential changes in PRN pricing.

Stay Informed: Monitor updates from Defra, including the final RAM publication and any adjustments to compliance fees.

Partner with Experts: Collaborate with a trusted compliance partner like Flame UK to navigate the complexities of EPR and DRS.

Get in touch with Flame UK for expert advice and tailored solutions to navigate the evolving compliance landscape. Together, let’s make packaging waste management simpler, smarter, and more sustainable.