Packaging Waste Regulation

This regulation came into force in 1997. It has been amended further in 2003

What Is The Function Of This Regulation?

This regulation is to ensure that businesses take complete responsibility for the packaging waste created as a result of their business actions.

The regulation requires producers of packaging waste to recover or recycle their share of packaging.

Does This Apply To My Company?

If your business has a turnover in excess of £2million, or you business handles more than 50 tonnes of packaging, then YES, this regulation applies to you.

What do I Have To Do?

Don’t panic, you don’t have to recover or recycle the waste yourself.

There is a scheme on hand for producers in the structure of a Packaging Waste Recovery Note (PRN).  This gives the producer proof of recovery or recycling by reprocessors.

Targets

Under the regulations, targets are set by the Government for producers to met concerning recovery and recycling.

Who Do I Register With?

If you comply with the above information, to complete your responsibility, you must register with:

In England: Environmental Agency
In Scotland: SEPA
In Northern Ireland: EHS
In Wales: Environmental Agency


What Is Considered As Packaging?

Packaging consists of all the goods used from protection to presentation. It includes all products used for the containment, protection and handling etc.

Packaging that is also included are returnable and non-returnable items like those listed below.

Examples

Boxes, pallets, labels, paper bags, cardboard tubes, glass, metals & plastics.

Don’t forget this also includes items such as tape, binding and wrapping material.