Turning red to green: How the RAM can help you reassess your packaging


Traffic Light on Green

What is the RAM? 

Under the UK government’s packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) rules, Companies must assess how recyclable their packaging is by considering how easily it can be collected, sorted and processed through recycling systems to produce a usable end product. Packaging is rated Green (readily recyclable in current UK systems), Amber (recyclable but facing challenges) or Red (difficult to recycle at scale). From 2025, this will be done using the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM), which applies to all packaging considered household waste.  

The aim of RAM is to pinpoint any packaging components labelled as “red” – those that are challenging to recycle – and encourage businesses in redesigning them so they can progress towards “green”, or easily recyclable, packaging. This shift not only strengthens environmental performance but may also help lower future compliance costs. 

Who is affected?

This assessment is essential for: 

  • Manufacturers and Brand Owners: To ensure products meet recyclability standards before entering the market 
  • Retailers: To understand the recyclability of own-brand and supplier packaging 
  • Importers and Distributors: To assess compliance with UK regulations and responsible sourcing practices 
  • Sustainability and Compliance Managers: To meet internal and external environmental objectives while avoiding penalties for non-compliance 

How can Valpak help turn red to green?

We offer a range of Data Services and support to help navigate products from red classification to green classification.  

  • Insights platform: Pinpoint ‘red classified’ packaging items using our Insights Platform, and work with our in-house packaging consultant to make the necessary changes to move them towards greener, more recyclable alternatives. 
  • Online resources: Access RAM Decision Trees, the RAM Tool via our Member Area, and regular webinars and policy updates to make informed packaging decisions and design green-rated, easily recyclable products. 
  • Packaging Technology Consultancy: We have a team of experts who provide bespoke services to support your business. Whether it’s reviewing packaging designs and materials with our in-house packaging technologist or assessing the current recyclability of your packaging to help transition to more efficient and green rated packaging, we can offer tailored guidance to meet your needs. 
  • Planning to change a material to meet green RAM legislation? Speak to our consultants first to forecast costs and ensure the change is financially beneficial for your business. 
  • Valpak + ThePackHub Partnership: By combining Valpak’s compliance, legislation, and environmental expertise with ThePackHub’s global packaging innovation insights, we help brand owners, retailers, and value chain actors make informed, future-ready packaging decisions that are both compliant and commercially effective. 

Summary and next steps  

Taking proactive steps to assess and improve recyclability is essential in today’s sustainability-focused market. Our expert team is here to guide you through the process. 

Our Compliance services team can help you meet packaging EPR requirements and drive your sustainability strategy forward. To find out more, get in touch with our team on 03450 682 572.