Updates to producer responsibility obligations for packaging waste

On 23 December 2025, the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging and Packaging Waste) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 were published, updating the 2024 Regulations.

Key changes include revised definitions of packaging categories, clarification of exemptions for charities from producer obligations, and updated rules on producer responsibilities, including new provisions for corporate mergers and transfers of ownership.

Record keeping and reporting now specifically apply to producers involved in closed loop recycling.

Disposal and administration fees can now be adjusted to account for recycled content in closed loop packaging, whether the packaging used is reasonably necessary, and provisions are included for late assessment of fees.

Offenses and civil sanctions are clarified, including the offense of failing to report closed loop packaging waste without having paid the required registration charge.

Producers should review their reporting, record keeping, and fee arrangements to ensure compliance with the updated requirements.

The regulations came into force on 1 January 2026.

Sources :

UK (SI) 2025/1369 – Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging and Packaging Waste) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 – Published Dec 2025