Understanding the Recyclability Assessment Methodology: What it means for you

The UK's packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation mandates that, starting in 2025, companies must assess the recyclability of all household packaging. This is where the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) comes into play. Understanding and implementing RAM is essential for compliance and demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship. Ross More's latest blog delves into the intricacies of RAM, offering insights into its application and how it impacts your business operations.


Sustainability is at the heart of business modern operations, and ensuring your packaging is recyclable is key to meeting both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.

Under the UK government’s packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) legislation, businesses are required to assess the recyclability of their packaging. The Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) applies from 2025 onwards and covers all packaging classified as household packaging.

We offer expert support through our Compliance services to help businesses navigate this complex requirement. But what does this mean for you, and how can our Data services support your compliance and sustainability goals?

What is the Recyclability Assessment Methodology?

The Recyclability Assessment Methodology is a UK government framework designed to help businesses understand how their packaging materials perform in the recycling system, to support compliance with the UK’s packaging EPR legislation.

This includes assessing:

  • Material composition and its compatibility with current recycling infrastructure
  • Contaminants that may hinder recyclability
  • Availability of collection and sorting facilities across the UK
  • Compliance with packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) and Plastic Packaging Tax regulations

Through this assessment, businesses gain a clearer picture of the environmental impact of their packaging and can take steps to improve recyclability where necessary.

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 sustainable sourcing practices
  • Sustainability and Compliance Managers: To meet internal and external environmental objectives while avoiding penalties for non-compliance

How Valpak’s Compliance services can support you

We offer a range of compliance solutions to support businesses in meeting recyclability and regulatory requirements:

  • Detailed packaging data reports: Understand how each component of your packaging affects recyclability.
  • Material-specific guidance: Insights on how to improve recyclability through material choices and design changes.
  • Regulatory compliance support: Ensure compliance with EPR, Plastic Packaging Tax, and other sustainability regulations.
  • Bespoke Consultancy services: Tailored advice to help your business transition to more sustainable packaging solutions.

Visit our dedicated Recyclability Assessments webpage to find out more.

Next steps: How to get started

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 03450 682 572.

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