Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes are changing the packaging game across the EU—and fast. While these regulations promote a more sustainable future, they’re also driving up packaging costs. If you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone.
Whether you’re a manufacturer, importer, or brand owner, understanding and managing EPR obligations is now essential—not optional. But here’s the good news: with the right strategies, you can stay compliant and keep your costs under control.
Let’s explore five practical, proven ways to reduce EPR-related expenses while maintaining regulatory confidence.
What’s Driving Up Packaging Costs? Blame PPWR and EPR
EPR regulations hold producers financially responsible for the end-of-life treatment of packaging waste. That means covering costs for collection, sorting, recycling, and sometimes even litter clean-up. The recently revised EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is making these obligations even stricter.
As a result, many businesses are seeing unpredictable increases in their annual packaging budgets. Lack of clarity, inconsistent reporting, and rapidly evolving national rules are all contributing to the confusion—and the cost.
Tip 1: Master Your Packaging Data for Accurate EPR Compliance
Data is your first line of defense.
Many businesses overpay EPR fees simply because they don’t have a complete or accurate view of their packaging footprint. Do you know the weight, material type, and recyclability of every component of your packaging? If not, you might be paying more than you should.
Invest in systems or tools that help you capture, manage, and report your packaging data accurately. Consider software solutions that automate EPR calculations and generate reports aligned with country-specific rules.
Tip 2: Embrace Eco-Design to Minimize Waste and Costs
Eco-design isn’t just about sustainability—it’s a smart business strategy.
Design your packaging with end-of-life in mind. Use fewer materials, reduce mixed-material packaging, and prioritize recyclability or compostability. Many national EPR schemes apply modulated fees—rewarding recyclable packaging and penalizing hard-to-recycle formats.
One small company recently replaced complex, multilayer materials with a single recyclable alternative. The result? Reduced EPR fees, lower material costs, and improved consumer perception.
Tip 3: Explore Collective Compliance Schemes for Cost Efficiency
Managing EPR obligations on your own can be overwhelming—not to mention expensive.
Joining a collective compliance scheme allows you to pool resources with other producers. These schemes handle reporting, payments, and negotiations on your behalf. They also provide access to compliance expertise, reducing the risk of errors and penalties.
For many businesses, this approach is not only more manageable—it’s also more cost-effective in the long run.
Tip 4: Conduct a Packaging Audit to Uncover Hidden Savings
When was the last time you took a hard look at your packaging?
A thorough packaging audit can reveal inefficiencies you didn’t know existed—from over-specification to missed recycling opportunities. You might find that reducing packaging thickness, switching suppliers, or simplifying formats could deliver savings without sacrificing product protection.
Audits can also help you prepare for future regulatory changes and demonstrate compliance in case of audits or inspections.
Tip 5: Stay Ahead of Regulatory Changes with Proactive Compliance
EPR and packaging regulations are moving targets. What’s compliant today may not be tomorrow.
Stay informed through industry newsletters, EU Commission updates, and national guidance. Regularly review your compliance approach, and when needed, seek external expertise to make sense of evolving requirements.
RegSurance, for instance, provides regulatory support tailored to EU packaging laws and EPR systems—helping businesses navigate complexity, avoid surprises, and stay in control of their compliance strategy.
The Bottom Line: Strategic EPR Management Pays Off
EPR isn’t going away. In fact, it’s only becoming more demanding. But with a proactive, data-driven approach, you can manage your obligations with confidence—and even turn compliance into a competitive advantage.
Need help with packaging compliance? Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We support businesses across the EU with EPR reporting, PPWR compliance, packaging audits, and ongoing regulatory insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
EPR is a policy where producers are held responsible for the end-of-life impact of their packaging, including collection, sorting, and recycling costs.
How does PPWR affect packaging compliance?
PPWR introduces stricter rules on packaging design and recyclability, increasing reporting complexity and EPR-related costs.
Can EPR costs be reduced?
Yes. By improving packaging data, optimizing design, joining compliance schemes, and conducting audits, businesses can significantly reduce their EPR fees.
What is a collective compliance scheme?
It’s an organization that handles EPR obligations for multiple producers, streamlining compliance and potentially reducing costs.
How often should we audit our packaging?
At least annually, or whenever packaging changes occur. Regular audits help optimize costs and ensure ongoing compliance.