Recent analysis from Reconomy, a specialist in the circular economy, has revealed concerning trends regarding the recyclability of flexible plastic packaging in the UK. According to data from the Environment Agency, approximately 62% of flexible plastic assessed under the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) received a red rating in 2025. This classification indicates that these materials are not easily recyclable, potentially leading to increased costs for producers under the new extended producer responsibility for packaging (pEPR) regulations.
Understanding the Recyclability Assessment Methodology
The Recyclability Assessment Methodology is a critical component of the pEPR framework, which mandates that large producers contribute to the costs associated with the collection and recycling of packaging waste. The RAM evaluates packaging based on its recyclability, assigning ratings that will directly influence the fees producers must pay. From the 2026/27 assessment year, the fees will not only depend on the weight of the packaging but will also be modulated according to its recyclability rating.
Impact of Red Ratings on Producers
Packaging that receives a red rating will incur a 20% higher fee per tonne compared to amber-rated packaging, while green-rated packaging will benefit from a discount. This shift in fee structure means that producers with a significant amount of red-rated packaging could face substantially higher costs. The analysis indicates that nearly 245,000 tonnes of flexible plastic packaging fell into this category, highlighting a pressing issue for many businesses.
Trends in Packaging Tonnage
In addition to the recyclability concerns, the data shows a decline in total packaging tonnage reported by large producers, which fell by 1.2% to 10.97 million tonnes in 2025, down from 11.11 million tonnes in 2024. This reduction was primarily driven by decreases in plastic and glass packaging, which saw declines of approximately 52,300 tonnes and 51,600 tonnes, respectively. Other materials, such as steel and fibre composite, also experienced reductions, while aluminium packaging increased by about 8,700 tonnes, and paper and card remained stable.
Potential Reasons for the Decline in Packaging Tonnage
The decrease in reported packaging tonnage may suggest that some producers are proactively adjusting their packaging strategies in anticipation of the new pEPR regulations. The first assessment year began on 1 April 2025, with the first invoices issued in October 2025. This early response could indicate a shift towards more sustainable practices as businesses seek to mitigate potential financial impacts.
Recommendations for Businesses
Richard Hardstaff, Sales Development Manager at Eurokey by Reconomy, emphasised the importance of reassessing packaging strategies in light of these findings. He noted, “pEPR represents a major shift in how the costs of packaging waste are handled. With nearly two-thirds of the flexible plastic assessed under RAM receiving a red rating, many producers could face higher per-tonne charges when modulated fees are applied. We recommend that businesses reassess their packaging to understand their potential fee exposure and identify opportunities to reduce weight and improve recyclability. Those that act early will be better placed to manage their fees and contribute to a more circular economy.”
Conclusion
The findings from Reconomy highlight a critical challenge for producers of flexible plastic packaging as they navigate the evolving landscape of recycling regulations. With a significant portion of packaging receiving low recyclability ratings, businesses must take proactive steps to reassess their packaging strategies. By improving recyclability and reducing packaging weight, producers can not only mitigate potential financial impacts but also contribute to a more sustainable circular economy.
This article was submitted via the World of Renewables press desk.
You can join now and receive a FREE HTML email send to 10,000 contacts of your choice (normally £1,900).
