On 3 July, I attended the Letsrecycle Conference, where industry leaders gathered to explore the evolving landscape of UK packaging compliance. With the first phase of Simpler Recycling underway and packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) gathering pace, the momentum for reform is building, despite ongoing challenges.
In this blog, I share my key takeaways from the event, offering insights into current policy shifts and how Valpak is helping businesses navigate this complex transition.
Simpler recycling: progress and challenges
Three months into implementation, Simpler Recycling has seen a mixed rollout. A few factors have contributed to the slower-than-expected uptake:
- Key requirements were only confirmed in November 2024
- Some sorting infrastructure remains unprepared
- Collectors and processors are still awaiting detailed guidance
Clarity and timing will be essential in the next phases. As Cathy Cook from LARAC noted, public understanding is still developing, especially with materials like cartons and films, which fall under the plastics fraction but are still commonly thought of as paper or board. Additionally, local authorities face enforcement limitations. They can encourage residents to recycle but lack the power to enforce participation if engagement drops.
pEPR: “It may not be perfect, but it is happening”
That’s the message from Margaret Bates at Defra. Acknowledging that the system is still finding its feet, she made it clear: pEPR is progressing, and producers need to be prepared. Here are some key updates:
- Label alignment: UK labelling requirements are expected to align with the EU’s PPWR but can’t be confirmed until EU decisions are final.
- Base fee updates: These now reflect improved data and better stakeholder engagement.
- Local authority funding: In England, packaging fees will be directed toward local authority waste services, giving them greater certainty to plan and invest in infrastructure.
- Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) reporting: Producers must still submit RAM 1.1 for HY1 2025, but no enforcement will occur if they use HY2 data as a proxy. It’s a flexible but legally sound solution to support consistent reporting.
- Re-use and refill: Still a priority, but implementation will depend on producer reporting data and readiness.
Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO): the future is taking shape
Valpak, among others, has submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) to help shape the UK’s first PRO, which has progressed to the next stage. A successful PRO will play a pivotal role in managing packaging waste, supporting recyclability assessments, and guiding policy development. With 27 years of experience as the UK’s largest compliance scheme, Valpak brings a broad, balanced perspective, representing both major and mid-sized producers across multiple sectors. A copy of Valpak’s EOI can be downloaded from the Knowledge Hub.
What does this mean for businesses?
Insights from industry voices, including Ecosurety, Lorax and Clarity, show that producers of all sizes are adjusting at different speeds. While large brands may have the leverage to engage suppliers for packaging data, many mid-tier businesses are still navigating those conversations. Clear legislation, transparent processes, and the right support are critical, and that’s where Valpak can help.
DRS: the next big shift
The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is expected to launch in 2027, and it’s being hailed as a fast win by many in the sector. DRS will complement pEPR, particularly in tackling “on-the-go” waste, and the food and drink industry say it’s ready. However, rollout will depend on cross-nation coordination and robust public engagement.
The Irish model offers inspiration: a national awareness campaign launched 100 days ahead of implementation helped 76% of citizens understand what was expected of them.
Bringing it all together: policy, progress, and partnership
A key takeaway echoed by all speakers: none of these reforms exist in a vacuum. Packaging policy, producer obligations, and recycling infrastructure are all interconnected. As Margaret Bates said, “It may not be perfect, but it is happening.”
Public awareness, cross-sector collaboration, and early investment are essential for long-term success, and businesses that act now will be best positioned to thrive.
How can Valpak help?
From bespoke data reporting and RAM support packages to consultancy, webinars and stakeholder briefings, we provide the clarity, compliance expertise, and tools needed to make sense of the shifting landscape.
Want tailored advice or help interpreting your data?
Get in touch with the team to see how Valpak can support your obligations under Simpler Recycling and pEPR.
Need help planning for DRS?
We can help you map your product flows and prepare your reporting systems in advance.
Contact us on 03450 682 572 or fill out our online enquiry form to find out how Valpak can support your compliance journey.
