British Glass has welcomed proposed changes to the UK’s packaging extended producer responsibility (pEPR) fee system, including an exemption for certain glass packaging supplied directly to licensed hospitality venues.
The government’s planned measures also include an update to the material value assigned to glass packaging and higher modulation factors for less recyclable packaging materials from the third year of pEPR. It will additionally issue calls for evidence on fee modulation and reuse, according to the industry body.
Weight-based fees under scrutiny
British Glass said glass had carried a disproportionate share of pEPR costs because the fees are calculated by weight rather than by the number of packaging units placed on the market. That structure, it argued, has increased pressure on UK glass manufacturers from food and drink companies that buy packaging by unit count, not weight, and has encouraged switching from glass to lighter packaging materials.
Nick Kirk, executive director of British Glass, said the government had listened and recognised the importance of maintaining a strong domestic glass industry. He said the proposed changes begin to address some unintended consequences of pEPR and better recognise glass’s environmental benefits. The planned update to glass material value, the proposed acceleration of modulation factors and a commitment to review future fee structures would all move the system in a fairer direction, he added.
Hospitality exemption and evidence calls
Kirk said it was important to understand the full impact of the proposed hospitality exemption, but that it was encouraging that the government recognised the challenges facing hospitality businesses and was taking steps to avoid unnecessary costs. He particularly welcomed the forthcoming calls for evidence on modulation and reuse.
British Glass noted that the reforms will not take effect until the scheme’s third year, covering April 2027 to March 2028. It said glass manufacturers continue to face pressure from high energy costs, international competition and uncertainty over future packaging policy.
Kirk described the proposals as a start rather than the end of the process, noting that glass manufacturers are making decisions on investment, production and jobs now. Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said the government had shown it means business in tackling harmful packaging materials and protecting UK glass manufacturing.