With packaging regulations tightening in the UK (Extended Producer Responsibility came into force in 2025), knowing whether your packaging is recyclable is more important than ever.
Generally recyclable packaging:
- ✅ Plain corrugated cardboard
- ✅ Uncoated kraft paper and paperboard
- ✅ Standard folding cartons (without foil laminates)
- ✅ Kraft mailer bags
- ⚠️ Gloss laminate (BOPP film) — check with recycler
- ⚠️ Foil stamping — metallic foil reduces fibre recyclability
- ❌ Full foil laminate (like crisp packets) — generally not kerbside recyclable
- ✅ Aqueous (water-based) varnishes — maintain recyclability
- ✅ Matt and gloss varnish (without plastic film) — recyclable
Recyclability affected by coatings and finishes:
How to check:
1. Ask your packaging supplier for the material specification
2. Use the OPRL (On-Pack Recycling Label) scheme — UK's standardised recycling label
3. Check with your local council's recycling guidelines
4. Look for the Recyclable symbol (three-arrow loop) with the material type
UK EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility):
From 2025, UK businesses producing more than a threshold of packaging are required to register with an approved Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) and pay recycling fees based on the packaging material and weight. Recyclable materials attract lower fees.
Choosing recyclable packaging isn't just environmentally responsible — under EPR, it directly affects your compliance costs.