How to navigate EPR compliance for WEEE, batteries, and packaging

When talking about Extended Producer Responsibility, we usually need to be specific so the information can be useful, especially if our goal is to achieve WEEE compliance. EPR is most effective when implemented by sectors, taking into account the particularities of different families of products. And three of these families, closely linked by their characteristics and the needs and challenges they present to the environment, are electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), batteries, and packaging.

Why EPR compliance matters now

As outlined in our previous post on EPR, this policy framework has become the backbone of most European environmental legislation. Producers are considered responsible for their products from the design board to the recycling plant, and are expected to take measures that guarantee these products are more easily recycled, among other obligations.But the responsibility isn’t treated the same way across all product families. EPR is most useful when applied by sectors, taking into account the challenges that particular materials pose to the environment, and adapting to the way producers from a given sector are used to working. This way, EPR measures can be tailored, more specific, and legislation can make compliance more understandable and down-to-earth.

Understanding product-specific EPR obligations

The environmental impact of an apple core is clearly smaller than that of a battery (even if fruit waste shouldn’t be thrown into nature). Different products affect the planet in different ways, which is why EPR is designed and legislated sector by sector.

Some products are treated with strong chemicals, while others require corrosive elements to function. Even within the same sector, there are differences between products, but usually enough similarities for legislation to address almost every case.

Materials aren’t the only factor shaping EPR obligations. Carton packaging is a good example: it is easy to recycle and generally made from safe components. Yet the sheer volume produced, shipped, and discarded every day makes packaging a sector of its own, one that is increasingly regulated and closely monitored.

Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) have an essential role in sector’s EPR. These schemes unite companies within the same sector to collectively meet their regulatory obligations for reclaiming and recycling product-related waste. Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) often combine aspects of both financial and operational EPR, providing economic contributions to the collection process while also taking part in decisions on how the system is organized and managed.

In Circular Compliance, we specialize in WEEE, batteries and packaging compliance, so let’s go a little deeper in how EPR works for these sectors.

WEEE EPR in Europe

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) EPR is regulated by the WEEE Directive. The Directive divides electronic and electrical products into six categories and details producers’ obligations, which include labelling requirements, registration, take-back obligations, and reporting of quantities placed on the market.

Batteries EPR in Europe

While batteries produce electricity through chemistry and are, strictly speaking, an electrical product, they have enough particularities to require their own EPR regulation. In the EU, battery producers must comply with the recent Battery Regulation.The obligations are similar to those for WEEE producers. In fact, many companies that manufacture WEEE also have battery obligations, since most electronic equipment requires batteries to function.

Packaging EPR in Europe

As mentioned, packaging legislation is becoming increasingly demanding for producers. This year, the EU Packaging Regulation was approved, focusing on recyclability and waste reduction. Each country must develop its own laws based on the European framework, and some are already introducing additional obligations beyond those included in the Regulation, as is their prerogative.

Packaging producers must also register, report (with increasingly detailed breakdowns of each material), and meet labelling requirements so consumers know where and how to dispose of packaging for recycling, making the process as straightforward as possible.

Key Steps for Achieving Compliance

What are the more important actions you need to take in order to be compliant?

Identify if you’re a “producer” under EPR legislation.
Register with national authorities or compliance schemes.
Appoint an Authorized Representative, when needed.
Join a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO).
Submit regular data reports on product quantities placed on the market.
Pay fees based on volume/type/materials.
Stay informed about national differences.

From Obligation to Opportunity

Although EPR is usually framed as a legal obligation, it can also be an opportunity for business. Consumers are increasingly worried about the environmental footprint of their purchases and decisions. If you can reassure them about your company’s compliance, and your commitment to the upcoming obligations on eco-design, their trust in your brand will grow.

Explore Circular Compliance services to simplify your EPR journey across WEEE, batteries, and packaging, and turn regulatory risk into environmental leadership.

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How to navigate EPR compliance for WEEE, batteries, and packaging

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