Packaging Producer Responsibility

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Packaging makes businesses financially responsible for the packaging they place on the UK market. If you meet the thresholds, you must register, report data, and pay fees towards packaging waste collection and recycling.

Who is obligated

• Large producers: £2m+ turnover AND 50+ tonnes packaging
• Brand owners: Pay full disposal costs for branded packaging
• Importers: Obligated for packaging on imported goods
• Online marketplaces: May be obligated for third-party sellers

Recycling obligations and the PRN system

Obligated businesses must contribute to UK recycling targets by purchasing Packaging Recovery Notes (PRNs) or Packaging Export Recovery Notes (PERNs) as evidence that packaging waste has been recycled.

How the PRN system works

• Government sets annual recycling targets by material
• Your obligation is calculated based on packaging you handle
• Buy PRNs/PERNs from accredited reprocessors or exporters
• Submit evidence to prove you've met your obligation

Compliance options

You can comply through an approved compliance scheme (who handle registration, reporting, PRN purchasing and evidence submission on your behalf) or register directly with the national regulators.

Compliance schemes

Most businesses join a compliance scheme for simplicity. Schemes charge membership fees plus per-tonne costs based on your packaging mix and the PRN market price. They handle all regulatory reporting and evidence submission.

Direct registration

Larger businesses may choose direct registration with the Environment Agency (England), Natural Resources Wales, SEPA (Scotland), or NIEA (Northern Ireland). This requires managing your own data submissions and PRN purchases.