Leaders from across the packaging sector gathered in London last week to discuss circularity in packaging, advances in technology, and the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Delegates heard directly from Mary Creagh CBE MP, Under Secretary of State at Defra on the progress of packaging reforms and the transition towards a resource-efficient, low waste economy.
In her opening address, the minister praised the sector’s “leadership, innovation and commitment” in accelerating the shift towards circular packaging systems – highlighting that circularity is a “major opportunity for growth, innovation and industry collaboration” as well as an environmental necessity.
In response, FPA executive chair Mike Revell welcomed the ambition of the reforms but warned that current EPR implementation risks creating confusion and major financial uncertainty for businesses.
He compared the early stages of EPR rollout to the “Wild West”, given that companies “don’t know when to expect the next financial impact or what additional fees to plan for”. Although he emphasised the packaging industry’s support of the principle that producers should fund the end-of-life costs of the packaging they place on the market, he raised serious concerns that businesses could be being charged multiple times for the same packaging under different regulations.
“Plastic packaging is already charged under the Plastic Packaging Tax”, he explained, “and now again under EPR, with some businesses supplying dual-material packs conceivably being charged three times. That’s not a sustainable or proportionate system”.
Revell also warned that the cost burden risks driving inflationary pressures from 2026, ultimately impacting consumers.
He called on government to act swiftly to:
- Remove duplicated charging within the EPR framework.
- Ensure a level playing field by tackling non-compliant importers and overseas suppliers currently avoiding UK regulations.
He concluded: “Our sector supports paying its fair share, but not two or three times over. If we are to achieve the circularity government seeks, compliance must be fair, consistent and enforced. FPA members are committed to delivering this transition, but the system must work in practice, not just in principle”.