UK Packaging Waste Regulations: EPR Obligations for E-Commerce Sellers
Updated 2026-08-03
UK Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging requires businesses that supply packaged goods to the UK market to report their packaging data and pay fees based on the amount and type of packaging they use. Businesses with an annual turnover of £1 million or more that handle 25 tonnes or more of packaging must register with the Environment Agency and report packaging data twice yearly.
Primary sources
This page is grounded in the primary materials below. Rules change, so open the source and confirm the current version before acting.
FAQ
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging?+
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach where producers (including importers and retailers) are given responsibility for the environmental impact of their packaging throughout its lifecycle. In the UK, this means businesses must report packaging data and pay fees that fund the collection, sorting, and recycling of packaging waste.
Do overseas sellers need to comply with UK packaging EPR?+
Yes, overseas sellers who supply packaged goods to UK consumers are considered 'producers' under the EPR regulations. If you meet the turnover (£1 million) and tonnage (25 tonnes) thresholds, you must register and report. This includes sellers using Amazon FBA UK who have goods packaged and shipped from UK warehouses.
What packaging data do I need to report?+
You must report the weight and type of all primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging you supply to the UK market. Data is reported in tonnes by material type (glass, aluminium, steel, paper/card, plastic, wood, and other). You must also report whether packaging is household or non-household and whether it's been recycled.
How much are the EPR fees?+
EPR fees are calculated per tonne of packaging supplied and vary by material type. Rates are set annually by the environment agencies and typically range from £50-£500+ per tonne depending on the material. Plastic packaging tends to have the highest fees. Fees fund local authority collection and recycling infrastructure.
When are the reporting deadlines?+
Packaging data must be reported twice a year: by 1 April for packaging supplied in the first half of the previous year (July-December), and by 1 October for packaging supplied in the second half (January-June). Registration deadlines vary but are typically in the first quarter of the compliance year.
What happens if I don't comply with packaging EPR?+
Non-compliance can result in enforcement action by the Environment Agency, including compliance notices, civil sanctions, and prosecution. Penalties can include fines of up to £5,000 in magistrates' court or unlimited fines in crown court. The Environment Agency actively monitors online sellers for compliance.
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