UK packaging waste regulations were introduced to reduce levels of waste ending up in landfill, control the use of heavy metals in packaging and ensure that packaging itself meets a set of essential requirements. Key regulations include the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations (2007) and the Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations (2015).
The 2007 regulations apply to organisations which own packaging or supply it to others and have a turnover greater than £2 million a year and handle in excess of 50 tonnes of packaging a year. In order to comply with the regulations steps organisations should take include: registering with their country’s Environment Agency, filling in an annual data submission regarding the type and amount of packaging handled, calculating the ‘obligation’ amount of packaging they need to recover and recycle, purchasing recycling evidence (commonly referred to as Packaging Waste Recovery notes) and submitting these to the appropriate environment agency.
The 2015 regulations apply to organisations who recondition packaging, pack/fill packaging which is then introduced the UK market or import packaging which is filled already. To meet regulation requirements businesses should: minimise packaging weight and volume (whilst maintaining the necessary hygiene and safety standards), be able to recover or reuse it after use and ensure the minimal release of any hazardous substances. They should also ensure that the use of heavy metals including ones such as cadmium and lead do not extend beyond allowed maximum levels.
Acumen are a leading provider of waste management solutions to industrial sites across the UK. We can deal with all kinds of waste as well as help you ensure your site is waste compliant. For more information about the service we provide, or to speak to us about your individual site requirements please contact us today on 0800 118 2165.
