EPI

Packaging Takeback Requirements

Under the many producer responsibility policies implemented around the world, companies who sell packaged goods must "take back" their packaging, or pay packaging fees to fund a packaging recovery and recycling scheme. These fees are primarily based on the amount of packaging (by weight) and the type of packaging materials used. In general, the more packaging a product bears and the more difficult the packaging material is to recycle or manage in a given country, the higher the fees.

Brandowners and importers are required to calculate the quantities of each packaging material used and file periodic reports. To do this, detailed packaging data are needed.

Example of Packaging Fees Fees vary greatly by country and by material. The more easily and inexpensively a material can be recycled, the lower its fees will usually be. For example, the two trays shown here are of a similar size and are both used for cushioning products within a carton. Compare the fees associated with them to see the impact material selection can have on the bottom line.

PET Tray (34.3 g)

Fees per 1000 units:
Germany: $ 60.05
Belgium: $ 17.23

Molded Pulp Tray (30 g)

Fees per 1000 units:
Germany: $ 7.11
Belgium: $ 0.60

EPI's Approach

EPI will review your fee payments for completeness and accuracy.
We will examine the calculations and your packaging systems to identify any applicable discounts, fee savings opportunities, or data gaps.
EPI can assess your database systems for opportunities to streamline the fee reporting process and improve data quality.
We can help you implement a software solution to centralize the reporting process and improve reporting accuracy.
If compliance gaps are identified, EPI will assist you and your affiliates in registering with the necessary organizations, estimating your fee liability, and calculating any historic reports.