Overview of Austria EPR Requirement
Austria’s EPR scheme, outlined in the Packaging Ordinance 2014 and enforced from 1 January 2023, requires businesses placing packaging, single-use plastic products, or plastic-containing fishing gear on the Austrian market to comply. Obligations include registering with Altstoff Recycling Austria (ARA), submitting packaging data, paying recovery fees, and submitting legally binding declarations for compliance. Different reporting frequencies apply based on projected annual fees.
Benefits for Businesses and the Environment
Participating in Austria’s EPR system ensures legal compliance and promotes environmental responsibility. Businesses support sustainable packaging recovery through ARA’s schemes, contributing to high recycling rates. ARA simplifies obligations for small producers through flat fees and less frequent reporting, enabling SMEs to comply easily. The Green Dot symbol demonstrates compliance, enhancing brand image and consumer trust.
What Qualifies as Packaging
All packaging types placed on the Austrian market, including service, household, and commercial packaging, are subject to EPR. This includes any materials used for protection, delivery, or presentation of goods, as well as single-use plastic products and plastic-containing fishing gear. Businesses must report type, material, and volume of such packaging to ARA.
Exempted Packaging
Packaging may be exempt if it’s hazardous, reused, or recovered directly by the producer. Exemptions also apply if compliance is already ensured by suppliers, contract fillers, or if packaging is used for exports or delivered to major waste producers. Evidence must be submitted to ARA upon request.
Special Requirements for Single-Use Plastic (SUP) Packaging
SUP packaging and plastic-containing fishing gear are covered under household packaging and require annual reporting, regardless of business size. Reports must be submitted by 15 March of the following year with payments due by 15 April. Compliance includes specifying materials and mass data.
Who Must Register for EPR in Austria
Producers, importers, packaging fillers, and distance sellers must register for Austria’s EPR. Foreign distance sellers to private end-users must appoint an Authorized Representative. The obligations apply regardless of company size if packaging or SUP products are placed on the Austrian market.
Data Management and Record-Keeping
Businesses must submit packaging data through the ARA portal according to their reporting frequency. Required data includes packaging type, material, quantities for household and commercial use, and legally binding compliance declarations. Proper documentation for exemptions and year-end summaries (for monthly and quarterly reporters) is essential.
Common EPR Compliance Challenges in Austria
Companies face challenges in tracking reporting deadlines, classifying packaging types accurately, and providing sufficient exemption documentation. Distance sellers and SMEs may struggle without localized expertise, especially when fulfilling legal declaration and submission requirements through the ARA portal.
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