UK Packaging EPR: 2025/26 Summary Factsheet
What is EPR?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) makes producers financially responsible for the full net costs of collecting and recycling household packaging waste. It aims to incentivise more sustainable packaging choices.
Key Dates & Milestones
Date Milestone
October 2023 Packaging data collection obligations began.
January 2025 Legal enforcement of EPR obligations.
April 2025 First packaging data submission deadline for small producers.
October 2025 Invoicing and payments for 2024 data begin.
July 2026 Modulated fees based on recyclability are introduced.
Confirmed 2025 Base Fees (£/tonne)
Material Fee (£/tonne)
Plastic £423
Fibre-based composite £461
Paper & cardboard £196
Glass £192
Steel £259
Aluminium £266
Wood £280
Other materials £259
Use of Revenues
Funds collected under EPR will be ringfenced to recycling and waste management. Local authorities must use the revenues for relevant infrastructure, education, and collections. Any underspend will be subject to clawback.
Modulated Fees from 2026
From July 2026, fees will be adjusted based on recyclability. Packaging will be assessed under the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) and classified as Red, Amber, or Green.
Who Must Comply?
Large producers (≥ £2M turnover and ≥ 50 tonnes packaging/year) must report data and pay fees.
Small producers (£1M–£2M turnover and ≥ 25 tonnes/year) report data only—no fee obligation.
For expert advice and support, contact 4 Eyes Ltd at info@4eyesltd.co.uk or visit www.4eyesltd.co.uk.
