OPRL member poll links key sustainability goals to UK packaging reforms

Packaging Solutions Green Solutions

A recent OPRL poll shows that, for the majority of brands surveyed, key sustainability goals tie in with the aims of the UK packaging reforms.

Over half of those polled during the OPRL webinar (57.7%) named plastic reduction as a key sustainability goal. Increasing recycled content came a close second, with 51 of the 90 webinar respondents (56.6%) citing it. Carbon (29%) and packaging weight reduction (24%) were also listed.

Jude Allan, interim managing director at OPRL, said: ‘This feedback shows that reforms such as the Plastic Packaging Tax and Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (pEPR) are already having a direct impact on design. Plastic reduction, for example, will help businesses to reduce costs under both pieces of legislation.

‘OPRL’s experience also reflects this focus – we are receiving a marked increase in queries relating to pEPR labelling. These range from, ‘What is the largest face on a sphere?’, to ‘What are the cost implications of recyclability assessments?’.

‘With mandatory labelling for recycling scheduled for 2027, brands must also prepare. So far, OPRL has been the only organisation awarding independent assessments for recyclability but, under the new legislation, Defra will provide definitive guidance. We know that updating artwork, managing print runs and controlling stock levels takes time, so OPRL recommends that businesses begin preparations as early as possible.’

Under pEPR, brands and importers (packaging producers) will become responsible for the full net cost of disposing of household packaging. Producers must also report twice yearly on the volume of packaging they place on the market.

Data reporting for Packaging EPR has already started, with the first fees due in 2025. By 1 April 2027, every product placed on the market that is destined for the household bin must feature the correct recycling instructions.

Since the launch of the Plastic Packaging Tax in 2022, any plastic packaging containing less than 30% recycled content will incur a fee. In 2024, the tax stands at £217.85 per tonne.