British Glass has welcomed government plans to revise packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) fees, including an exemption for certain glass packaging supplied directly to licensed hospitality venues.
The proposed package also includes an update to the material value assigned to glass packaging and plans for higher modulation factors for packaging materials that are less recyclable, to apply from the third year of pEPR. The government is also preparing calls for evidence on fee modulation and reuse.
A weight-based burden
British Glass said glass had carried a disproportionate share of pEPR costs because fees are calculated by weight rather than by the number of packaging units placed on the market. That structure, the organisation argued, has increased pressure on UK glass manufacturers from food and drink companies that buy packaging by unit rather than by weight, and has prompted some material switching from glass to lighter packaging.
The trade body’s argument centres on the way pEPR fees are set. Because charges are linked to weight, glass packaging can carry a higher fee burden than lighter alternatives even when customers buy packaging by unit. British Glass said that mismatch has affected purchasing decisions among food and drink customers and added to pressures on domestic manufacturers.
Nick Kirk, executive director of British Glass, said the government had listened and recognised the importance of maintaining a strong domestic glass industry. He said the proposed changes begin to address some unintended consequences of pEPR and better recognise glass’s environmental benefits. According to Kirk, the planned update to glass material value, the proposed acceleration of modulation factors and the commitment to review future fee structures all move the system in a fairer direction.
Hospitality exemption and evidence calls
Kirk said it was important to understand the full impact of the proposed exemption. He nonetheless described it as encouraging that the government recognises the challenges facing hospitality businesses and is taking steps to avoid unnecessary costs. He also said British Glass particularly welcomes the forthcoming calls for evidence on modulation and reuse.
Implementation from 2027
British Glass noted that the reforms will not take effect until the scheme’s third year, covering April 2027 to March 2028. The organisation said glass manufacturers continue to face pressure from high energy costs, international competition and uncertainty surrounding future packaging policy.
Kirk said the changes must be the start rather than the end of the process, adding that glass manufacturers are making decisions on investment, production and jobs now. Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said the government had shown it means business on tackling harmful packaging materials and protecting UK glass manufacturing.