Recyclability Assessment Methodology Support

Ensuring your business meets the requirements of the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM)

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The Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) is a framework developed by the UK government to evaluate the recyclability of packaging materials.

It assesses each packaging component based on its compatibility with current recycling infrastructure, including collection, sorting, and reprocessing capabilities. The methodology assigns a Red, Amber, or Green (RAG) rating to each component, which influences the fees producers pay under the packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) regulations.

Question Mark

Who needs to apply the RAM?

Your business will need to apply the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) to its packaging if:

  • It operates as a business, subsidiary, or group with a presence in the UK
  • Its annual turnover is £2 million or more
  • It handles more than 50 tonnes of packaging per year
  • It places household packaging or packaging often disposed of in on-the-go waste bins on the market
Eco friendly

Producers are required to assess the recyclability of their packaging using the RAM framework. The RAG rating assigned to each packaging component determines the EPR fees:

  • Red: Packaging that is difficult to recycle, attracting higher fees.
  • Amber: Packaging with some recyclability challenges, resulting in moderate fees.
  • Green: Packaging that is widely recyclable, leading to lower fees.

This system incentivises producers to design packaging that is more easily recyclable, aligning with sustainability goals and potentially reducing compliance costs.

Recyclable Packaging

The RAM primarily affects large producers that supply household packaging.

These producers are obligated to assess each packaging component separately and report the recyclability data, twice a year, as part of their packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) compliance.

Small producers may not be directly obligated but are encouraged to adopt similar practices to promote sustainability.

Packaging Analysis

We offer comprehensive support to businesses navigating the complexities of the RAM and pEPR compliance:

  • Consultancy services: Not sure about your RAM scores? We can conduct a one-time assessment of your packaging components or review your in-house assessments for accuracy and peace of mind.
  • Data services: Assistance with accurate data collection and reporting to ensure compliance with RAM requirements.
  • Packaging Technology Consultancy: Insights into the latest innovations and sustainable packaging solutions to improve your RAM rating, reducing your pEPR costs and improving your environmental impact.
  • Educational resources: Help your team understand and implement sustainable packaging practices, through tools such as our RAM Decision Trees and other online tools.
Trees

Why Valpak

We go beyond compliance to provide businesses with industry-leading support in navigating the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) and packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) requirements. Our expertise, vast data resources, and tailored services set us apart, ensuring that your business stays ahead in sustainability and compliance:

FAQs

The RAM aims to standardise the evaluation of packaging recyclability, ensuring that producers are accountable for the environmental impact of their packaging and are incentivised to design more recyclable products.

The RAG rating system directly influences the fees producers pay under packaging EPR regulations. Packaging rated as Red incurs higher fees due to its recyclability challenges, while Green-rated packaging benefits from lower fees, encouraging the use of recyclable materials.

Producers are required to begin assessing their household packaging using the RAM starting from 1 January 2025, with the first data submission due by 1 October 2025, covering the period from January to June 2025.

Currently, only large producers are required to assess their packaging using the RAM. However, small businesses are encouraged to adopt these practices to enhance sustainability and prepare for potential future regulations.

Improving packaging recyclability involves selecting materials compatible with existing recycling systems, simplifying designs to reduce complexity, and avoiding materials that are difficult to recycle. But recyclability is just one piece of the puzzle.

Our expert Packaging Technology Consultancy service goes further, helping businesses assess, refine, and enhance their packaging strategies to lower pEPR costs and achieve a green RAG rating. Whether you’re looking for a basic recyclability assessment, detailed material analysis, or a full packaging redesign, we offer tailored solutions to meet your goals.

Our team of expert consultants can also provide advanced support through:

For bespoke advice and to keep your business at the forefront of sustainable packaging, contact us today or visit our Packaging Analysis services webpage to learn more.

 

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Get in touch today to see how Valpak can support your packaging sustainability journey.

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