How to Reduce pEPR Fees

To reduce pEPR fees we suggest focussing on strategies that can effectively lower costs without compromising sustainability goals.

Eco-modulation isn’t due to be implemented until 2026; therefore, material recyclability doesn’t currently impact fees. However, considering these fees will be based on packaging placed on the market in 2025, packaging recyclability should certainly be a consideration during design.

Additionally, here are some other steps you can take to more immediately impact fees:

1. Lightweighting: One of the easiest ways to reduce EPR fees is to lightweight packaging. By reducing the overall weight of the materials used, you can lower the fees, which are calculated based on the weight of the packaging placed on the market.
2. Accurate weight data: It’s important to ensure your packaging weight data is as accurate as reasonably possible. Overestimating the packaging your business is placing on the market can lead to higher fees, so it’s important to frequently audit and verify the weights you’re reporting.
3. Material selection: Consider using materials with lower associated EPR fees. However, it’s important to approach this cautiously as other aspects should be considered. We advise checking the latest fee structures and guidelines to ensure that any material swap aligns with broader sustainability and regulatory goals.

By focusing on these three areas, you can effectively manage and potentially reduce your EPR fees while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.

Yes, reducing packaging weight can help in lowering EPR fees. Lighter packaging generally results in lower fees since EPR costs are calculated based on the total weight of the packaging placed on the market (POM). Benchmarking against industry standards can provide valuable insights into how your packaging compares with competitors and identify areas for improvement.

However, it’s important to balance lightweighting with the performance of the packaging, especially in the food sector. Reducing weight shouldn’t compromise the packaging’s ability to protect the product, as this could lead to issues like increased food waste, which would cancel out the benefits.

In some cases, particularly in the non-food sector, removing unnecessary packaging components can contribute to lightweighting without forfeiting functionality. This targeted approach can help you achieve cost savings while maintaining the effectiveness of the packaging.

Although pEPR fees can vary based on the type of material used, it’s important to carefully consider any packaging material changes. With fees still to be finalised, as well as broader environmental considerations to take into account, any drastic switches in materials should carefully considered and backed with evidence prior to implementation.

A more considered approach could involve optimising the materials you’re already using. For instance, you could investigate switching from laminated films to mono-materials to increase recyclability. This change can help increase the recyclability of your packaging without a complete material shift.

Also, avoiding materials like black plastic, which is difficult for sorting technology to detect in recycling facilities, can contribute to more efficient recycling and potentially lower fees. By making thoughtful adjustments rather than direct material swaps, you can enhance the sustainability of your packaging while simultaneously managing EPR costs.

Packaging design has an important role to play, as thoughtful design choices can significantly reduce pEPR costs. By focusing on the following things, businesses can optimise their packaging for both sustainability and cost-efficiency:

1. Remove unnecessary packaging: Removing excess packaging not only reduces material use but also directly lowers pEPR fees, which are calculated based on the total weight of packaging placed on the market.
2. Optimise packaging design: Making adjustments to packaging designs, such as modifying cartons to minimise waste during manufacturing or creating the right-sized packaging to avoid unused air space, can further reduce material costs and associated fees.
3. Avoid overpacking: Overpacking can lead to higher EPR fees and unnecessary material usage. Smart design choices that strike the right balance between protection and minimalism can help reduce these costs.
4. Correct labelling: By ensuring that packaging is labelled correctly for the end user you are promoting the correct recycling and disposal of the packaging, which can also determine pEPR fees by improving recyclability.

If you need support in optimising your packaging design to reduce EPR fees, our Packaging Technology Consultancy service can provide expert guidance. We help businesses make informed, sustainable design choices that align with both regulatory requirements and cost-efficiency goals.

When considering best practices for sustainable packaging, it’s important to keep in mind that while these strategies may not impact EPR fees immediately, they will likely become increasingly relevant once eco-modulation is introduced. This change is expected to influence fees starting from 2026 onwards.

Here are some key practices to consider:

1. Prioritise recyclability: Designing packaging with recyclability in mind will help. Opt for mono-materials instead of complex multi-material composites, and avoid materials like black plastic, which are difficult to recycle.
2. Right-sized packaging: Designing packaging that fits the product perfectly—without excessive air space—minimises material use and reduces waste, contributing to more sustainable packaging.
3. Reduce packaging weight: Lightweighting can reduce both material usage and transportation emissions. It’s a forward-thinking approach that aligns with future regulations.
4. Clear labelling for consumers: Ensuring that packaging includes clear recycling instructions helps consumers dispose of it correctly, improving overall recycling rates and potentially reducing future pEPR fees.
5. Innovative designs: Consider design changes that reduce waste during manufacturing or remove unnecessary components. Doing so will help to make your packaging more sustainable over its lifecycle.