Packaging Waste Regulations
The original UK regulations implementing the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, now being reformed and replaced by pEPR. Established the PRN system and initial producer responsibility framework.
The Packaging Waste Regulations (originally the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007) were the UK's first implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging, based on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive.
The original regulations established:
- The PRN/PERN evidence note system
- Producer obligation thresholds (originally higher than current levels)
- Material-specific recycling targets
- Registration requirements via the NPWD
- The role of compliance schemes
These regulations are now being substantially reformed and replaced by pEPR, which introduces full cost recovery from producers, modulated fees, and a new Scheme Administrator. The key shift is from a partial responsibility model (PRNs only) to full net cost recovery. During the transition period, some elements of the old regulations continue alongside new pEPR requirements.
Related Terms
Extended Producer Responsibility
A policy approach where producers bear significant responsibility for the enviro...
pEPR Regulations
The reformed Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging regulations in the U...
Compliance Scheme
An approved organisation that manages EPR obligations on behalf of obligated pro...
Packaging Recovery Note
A tradeable certificate issued by accredited reprocessors proving that a tonne o...
Recovery Targets
Government-set annual targets for the percentage of each packaging material that...
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