A Manchester-based environmental compliance specialist is urging UK businesses to act swiftly to avoid significant financial penalties under new packaging regulations set to take effect. Ecoveritas, an expert in environmental data and compliance, has warned that firms failing to report packaging data accurately before the fast-approaching deadlines could face costly repercussions.
The new government regulations, which aim to improve environmental accountability, require companies to submit detailed reports on their packaging activities. The first deadline for compliance is in October 2024, with another set for April 2025.
Andrew McCaffery, Chief Strategy Officer at Ecoveritas, said the changes are part of a broader effort to reduce the environmental impact of packaging. However, he noted that the new requirements present a significant challenge for businesses unfamiliar with the complexities of the updated legislation.
“The new regulations bring a level of complication that many businesses simply aren’t equipped to handle on their own,” McCaffery said. “Leveraging technology and expert guidance, such as what we provide at Ecoveritas, will be essential for companies to navigate these requirements efficiently and avoid potential penalties.”
The rules apply to businesses, including subsidiaries or groups, with an annual turnover of £1 million or more that supplied or imported over 25 tonnes of packaging to the UK market in the previous year. These firms must now collect and report data on their packaging, provide evidence of waste recycling, and specify whether packaging is supplied to homes or businesses. They are also required to disclose whether packaging could become litter, adding further complexity to compliance.
Businesses failing to meet these obligations could face waste management fees, administrative costs, and future penalties. While the financial penalties for non-compliance have not yet been confirmed, McCaffery emphasised that companies could find themselves paying far more than necessary if they don’t act promptly.
Ecoveritas, which works with a range of clients from SMEs to major brands such as Waitrose, Selfridges, Claire’s, and Suzuki, offers consulting services, data management, and software solutions designed to streamline the reporting process. The firm recently expanded its team and invested in new technology to automate much of the data collection and submission process, making it easier for businesses to comply with the new regulations.
McCaffery said the new packaging responsibilities mark a significant shift in how businesses must manage their environmental impact, both in the UK and internationally. “These regulations are not just about compliance,” he explained. “They represent a significant change in how companies are expected to manage their packaging waste and their role in the circular economy.”
Despite the challenges, McCaffery noted that the legislation would ultimately benefit the environment by incentivising businesses to reduce and recycle packaging waste. However, he stressed the importance of preparing early, particularly with the first submission deadline looming.
“For businesses that miss the October deadline, it’s still important to submit their data, even if it’s late,” he advised. “The next deadline in April 2025 is just around the corner, so companies need to start preparing now.”
McCaffery added: “These regulations are here to stay, and businesses must adapt, or they could face unnecessary costs running into hundreds of thousands of pounds. We all have a responsibility to comply, but more importantly, to protect the planet for future generations.”
With new packaging laws set to take hold, businesses across the UK are being urged to ensure their compliance processes are up to date to avoid significant financial risks.
