Packaging Innovations 2025 | PackUK: A ‘watershed moment’ for Extended Producer Responsibility

Defra will be participating in its first major public engagement since the launch of the PackUK scheme administrator, at Packaging Innovations in Birmingham.

Packaging professionals across the supply have some challenges implementing new environmental regulations.

The recurring theme appears to be the need for practical, actionable guidance that bridges the gap between policy and practice.

James Montero-MacColl, senior marketing manager, Easyfairs UK, said for years, the industry has been collectively grappled with the practical challenges of translating environmental regulations into actionable strategies – long before pEPR was on the radar.

“PackUK’s introduction addresses this head-on, offering a unified approach across all four UK nations. By shifting the cost of managing household packaging waste from taxpayers to producers, the scheme creates a direct line of responsibility that should drive innovation in sustainable packaging design and materials selection.”

Montero-MacColl said what makes PackUK particularly promising is its industry-led approach.

Under Sebastian Munden’s chairmanship, the steering group has already demonstrated its commitment to practical, business-focused solutions.

The collaboration with the Food and Drink Federation’s PRO Steering Group and local authorities in developing a new Producer.Responsibility Organisation shows real commitment to ensuring the scheme works for all stakeholders.

At Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025, speakers will include Mary Creagh, minister for nature, Sebastian Munden, chair of PackUK and WRAP, will lead a high-level discussion with ministers from all four UK nations.

Dedicated clinic sessions will also provide businesses with the opportunity to engage directly with PackUK representatives to address their specific concerns.