Does recyclability affect EPR fees?

Yes. Producers’ financial contributions under extended producer responsibility are modulated in line with the recyclability performance grades. Easily recyclable packaging is therefore treated more favourably than packaging that is hard to recycle. The Commission sets the precise framework by legal act.

For planning this means the performance grade becomes a cost issue before it becomes a market access issue. Packaging development runs in cycles of three to five years, so the material decision for 2030 is being taken today.