Terri Lord, Valpak Strategic Account Manager, unpacks key insights from the Letsrecycle Conference— from supply chain pressures to evolving recyclability standards, and how Valpak is helping businesses prepare for what's next. Whether it's adapting to new reporting requirements, planning for the 2027 Deposit Return Scheme, or understanding what Simpler Recycling means in practice, the message is clear: reform is happening, and early action is key.
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.
Three months into implementation, Simpler Recycling has seen a mixed rollout. A few factors have contributed to the slower-than-expected uptake:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.