Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is an environmental policy that holds producers accountable for their products throughout their entire life cycle, including waste collection and recycling. If you export to countries with EPR regulations, you become the "Producer" and must comply with EPR obligations in those markets. This requires obtaining an EPR registration number from the respective Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO).
The EU Commission is at the forefront of this regulation, but each Member State has implemented it differently, creating challenges for UK companies exporting across Europe. With sustainability and climate change taking centre stage, we expect this trend to continue evolving globally at a significant pace.
To determine if you're affected and need to comply, you will need to consult the PRO guidance in the export market. Compliance thresholds and recycling obligations vary, but they are based on established core data. In most cases, you'll need to know the types of packaging, volumes of packaging, and activities performed on that packaging in the previous calendar year.
Marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, Ankorstore, etc. are now being charged with collecting and validating EPR registration numbers and where companies cannot prove compliance, marketplaces will be obliged to suspend those non-compliant listings that fall under the relevant ERP product categories e.g. in Germany.
Certain intermediaries/facilitators have established themselves in light of this new regulation to enable companies to achieve pan-European compliance in exchange for a recurring management fee. Prominent ones are Ecosistant and Lizenzero.eu. NB: Global Trade Department has not evaluated these companies.
The Empowering SMEs in International Trade Program
Whether you are an exporter seeking to expand your brand internationally or a UK company aiming to strengthen your supply chain through overseas providers, the Empowering SMEs in International Trade Program is a fully funded programme that can help. The program, offers invaluable support in enhancing your knowledge, minimising risks, and ensuring success in international markets. To access a comprehensive range of resources, including upcoming events, past webinars, case studies, and more, visit their website at https://www.globaltradedept.com/empowering-smes-in-international-trade/.
In addition to the program, they also provide expert guidance on Extended Producer Responsibility and its impact on exporters. EPR regulations can significantly affect your business, and understanding your obligations is crucial. Their specialists at the Global Trade Clinic are available to offer free, impartial, and confidential advice.
Don't let regulatory complexities overwhelm you, contact the Empowering SMEs in International Trade Program for guidance and support.
Useful resources for local businesses
The below guides can be found on the Government website to help UK organisations affected by extended producer responsibility (EPR)...
Extended producer responsibility for packaging: who is affected and what to do
Packaging data: what to collect for extended producer responsibility
