A new study by the consultancy Circpack by Veolia concludes that the performance of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems in Europe varies significantly. The research, commissioned by Europen, identifies shortcomings in governance, transparency and recycling infrastructure, and calls for greater harmonisation within the scope of the planned Circular Economy Act (CEA).
The analysis compares the packaging EPR systems of all 27 EU member states. According to the authors' assessment, the performance differences are primarily attributable to variations in system design, supervision, data transparency, and infrastructure. Against the backdrop of the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which introduces binding recycling targets and harmonised reporting obligations, the performance of national EPR systems is becoming increasingly important.
System design is crucial for success
The study concludes that it is not the respective organisational model that determines success. Whether single or multiple return systems exist is less decisive than clear responsibilities, effective control, robust reporting, and traceable financial flows.
Furthermore, it is apparent that Member States with more detailed and publicly accessible data achieve better results. Granular data makes it possible to identify material losses, recognise investment needs, and better track the use of manufacturer contributions.
Infrastructure and ecofeminism in focus
The study identifies a further obstacle as a lack of sorting and recycling capacities for different types of packaging. A circular economy cannot be achieved through mandatory recycling quotas alone. Additional investments in collection, sorting, and recycling infrastructure are required.
Furthermore, the study assesses the design of EPR fees as a crucial factor for success. Systems with an ecologically modulated fee structure, which consider material, packaging format, and recyclability, therefore achieved better results than models with flat-rate contributions.
Recommendations for the Circular Economy Act
The study's authors recommend using the planned Circular Economy Act to further harmonise EPR systems in Europe. Proposals include, among other things, a standalone EU legal framework for EPR, more uniform reporting obligations, greater transparency, and a stronger alignment of manufacturer contributions with the expansion of recycling infrastructure.
In the authors' view, Extended Producer Responsibility should remain focused on its core task: organising and financing efficient waste management to meet European recycling targets.
Source: Europen
