A new poll conducted by On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) has revealed a strong alignment between the sustainability objectives of leading brands and the UK’s forthcoming packaging reforms.
More than half of the brands surveyed identified plastic reduction as a key sustainability goal, closely followed by increasing recycled content.
Other priorities included carbon reduction and packaging weight minimisation.
These findings suggest that the government's initiatives such as the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) and extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging are already influencing business strategies.
The PPT, introduced in 2022, imposes a tax on plastic packaging containing less than 30% recycled content while EPR is set to make domestic producers responsible for the full net cost of packaging disposal.
“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,” said Jude Allan, interim managing director at OPRL.
“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 recycling labelling set for 2027, brands are increasingly turning to OPRL for independent recyclability assessments.
While the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs will provide definitive guidance, OPRL recommends businesses start preparations early to manage potential challenges such as artwork updates and stock control.
Meanwhile, data reporting for packaging EPR has commenced, with fees due in 2025.
The national requirement for clear recycling instructions on all household packaging will be enforced from April 2027.
As the domestic packaging industry navigates these changes, OPRL's role in providing support and expertise is becoming increasingly vital.
The organisation’s data and insights are expected to be instrumental in helping businesses achieve their sustainability goals while complying with new regulations.
