Recycled Content
The proportion of a packaging item made from previously recycled materials rather than virgin raw materials. Higher recycled content can reduce environmental impact and is incentivised under regulations like the Plastic Packaging Tax.
Recycled content refers to the percentage of a packaging item that is made from materials that have been previously used and recycled. Increasing recycled content is a key strategy for reducing the environmental impact of packaging.
Recycled content is particularly significant for:
- Plastic Packaging Tax — plastic packaging with less than 30% recycled content is taxed at £217.85 per tonne
- Modulated fees — recycled content may be a factor in RAM assessment
- Brand commitments — many companies have set voluntary recycled content targets
- Sustainability reporting — recycled content is a key metric
Sources of recycled content include post-consumer recycled (PCR) material and post-industrial recycled (PIR) material. PCR is generally considered more valuable from a circular economy perspective. Producers must be able to verify and evidence their recycled content claims through certificates of compliance from their material suppliers. See our recycled content guide.
Related Terms
Plastic Packaging
Packaging made from polymeric materials including PET, HDPE, PP, LDPE, PS, and P...
Modulated Fees
Fee adjustments applied on top of base fees that reward recyclable packaging wit...
Recyclability Assessment Methodology
The standardised methodology used to assess the recyclability of packaging forma...
Circular Economy
An economic model that eliminates waste by keeping materials in use for as long ...
Plastic Packaging Tax
A UK tax on plastic packaging containing less than 30% recycled content, charged...
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