On 9 October, I had the pleasure of attending the Think Circular Live event hosted by Valpak, Reconomy, and RLG. The event brought together industry leaders to discuss the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape of extended producer responsibility (EPR) in the UK and Europe, focusing on packaging, batteries, and textiles.
Here are some of the key takeaways.
The role of data in sustainability
A central theme of the event was the critical role of accurate, granular data for current and future sustainability reporting. Challenges such as data collection from third parties while ensuring the quality of this data alongside increasingly detailed reporting requirements were discussed. Speakers Victoria Ellis and Elis Farrimond highlighted the need for collaboration with partners and suppliers, innovative data tools, and global compliance tracking to stay ahead of changing global data requirements as key ways to navigate these complexities effectively.
Regulatory changes coming in for packaging and batteries
Regulations across Europe are shifting swiftly, particularly for packaging and batteries. The upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is expected by Q1 2025 and introduces a number of new targets on recycled content, reuse, and waste prevention. It also presents the requirement to have all packaging be designed for recycling by 2030, which will form the basis for future eco-modulation across the EU.
Similarly, the new Waste Batteries Regulation has now entered into force but does not officially repeal the 2006 Batteries Directive until August 2025. Producers’ obligations will vary depending on the battery types they supply and will be implemented in a phased approach until 2036; but one thing that is clear is that with the onset of carbon footprint declarations and due diligence requirements, obligated producers will need to begin analysing the environmental impact of their batteries across the entire supply chain.
Textiles on the horizon
While mandatory textiles EPR remains limited to five European countries, it is gaining traction globally. With the onset of the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan, separate textile collection will be mandatory by January 2025, and EPR implementation across the EU is anticipated to be in place by June 2026.
The textiles industry has substantial environmental impacts and recycling challenges that range from low-quality garments which reduces their recycle value and limits its reuse potential, to the presence of mixed materials which are difficult to process and contaminate recycling streams. In response, EPR aims to encourage innovation to enhance the recyclability and durability of textiles to significantly reduce the proliferation of fast fashion.
How Valpak can help
In the face of rapidly changing environmental regulations worldwide, we offer end-to-end support to help businesses navigate complex compliance requirements. From global EPR tracking to robust data management, our team can simplify your compliance journey, enabling you to meet environmental standards and stay competitive.
For more details, contact us to learn how Valpak can support your business in achieving global compliance.
