Legislation

What is it?

Packaging producer responsibility regulations work in conjunction with packaging producer obligations to ensure that business are responsible for recovering and recycling UK packaging waste.

Who is affected?

Your business must comply with the Essential Requirements Regulations if you:

•    produce packaged products
•    design or specify packaging
•    import packaged goods or filled packaging into the UK
•    sell packaged goods or filled packaging
•    place packaging or packaged goods on the market.

The regulations apply regardless of your business’ turnover and the quantities of packaging produced, handled or filled.

What must you do?

If you pack products, fill packaging or import packed goods or packaging into the United Kingdom, you must ensure that the packaging meets the Essential Requirements.

Packaging includes all products that are used to contain, protect, handle, deliver and present goods. This includes non-returnable items.

In addition to meeting the Essential Requirements Regulations, you must also comply with the duty of care for waste.
For more information on Packaging Producer Responsibility regulations please view the Environmental Agency regulations website.