DEFRA

DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) is the UK government department that sets environmental policy, including the regulatory framework for EPR for packaging.

DEFRA's role in packaging EPR:

• Designing and updating the pEPR regulations
• Setting recovery and recycling targets
• Overseeing the Scheme Administrator
• Publishing guidance and the RAM assessment methodology
• Running the RPD data collection service
• Coordinating with devolved administrations

DEFRA works with the Environment Agency (which handles operational regulation and enforcement), WRAP (which supports implementation), and devolved government departments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. DEFRA publishes consultations on regulatory changes and producers should monitor these for upcoming obligations. Key DEFRA publications include fee rate schedules, reporting guidance, and regulatory impact assessments.