The spectrum when it comes to extended producer responsibility- EPR for packaging in the UK has indeed evolved, with certain major changes outlined in the updated guidance that has been released on January 23, 2024.
The updates go on to affect all organizations that happen to be involved in the supply or import when it comes to packaging. Enlisted are the elements that one needs to know in order to stay compliant.
EPR For Packaging: Major Changes As Well As Deferral of Fees
If the organization has gone on to get impacted due to extended producer responsibility- EPR for packaging, it is indeed mandatory to be aware of the latest developments that have taken place.
The most noteworthy update happens to be the deferral of EPR when it comes to packaging fees for a year. In 2024, one will not be required to pay any EPR fees, but compliance with reporting guidelines for 2023 stays compulsory.
It is critical so as to continue adhering to the regulations that were there before and making sure to fulfill any outstanding fee obligations.
Identifying The Affected Organizations
It is well to be noted that the reach of the regulations gets applied to all UK organisations that happen to be engaged in the import or supply when it comes to packaging. To gauge if any organization falls within the scope, the following criteria need to be considered:
Annual turnover worth £1m or $1.27m or more, which is based on the most updated accounts.
Responsibility when it comes to more than 25 tonnes of packaging in 2022.
Engagement in certain packaging activities like supplying goods to the UK market under their own brand, thereby placing unbranded goods into packaging, importing products within packaging, owning an online marketplace, hiring reusable packaging, or even supplying empty packaging.
Reporting And Compliance Obligations For Varied Packaging Activities
Taking into account how specific packaging activities go on to sync with EPR regulations is critical. Here happens to be a breakdown of obligations for numerous scenarios:
- Supplying goods under brand: If any organization supplies goods with a brand name to the UK market, action must be taken. This goes on to include any distinctive marks that are associated with the brand.
- Unbranded packaging: If one places goods into unbranded packaging, be it self-organization or otherwise, compliance measures do get applied.
- Importing products when it comes to packaging: If the organization imports products with packaging from outside of the UK and goes on to supply them to the UK market, it has to comply with EPR regulations.
- Owning an online marketplace: Operating an online marketplace that goes on to facilitate non-UK businesses selling goods in the UK needs action under EPR for packaging.
- Hiring or loaning reusable packaging: If an organization goes on to engage in hiring or loaning reusable packaging, compliance happens to be mandatory.
- Supplying empty packaging: If one manufactures or imports empty packaging and supplies it to a non-large organization, EPR regulations come into play.
Adapting To The Shifting Landscape
It is worth noting that the packaging sector must go on to adapt to the transforming EPR regulations in the UK. Whether it is a large or small organization, understanding obligations, deadline reporting, and potential fee structures happen to be essential.
One should stay informed about the current guidance and, if required, seek assistance from compliance schemes so as to navigate through the complexities of extended producer responsibility for packaging.
One must remember that even though fees are postponed, reporting the packaging data for 2023 remains a top priority.
