British Glass has welcomed government plans to change packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) fees, including an exemption for certain glass packaging supplied directly to licensed hospitality venues.
The announced measures also include an update to the material value assigned to glass packaging and plans to introduce higher modulation factors for packaging materials that are less recyclable, starting in the third year of pEPR. In addition, the government will issue calls for evidence on fee modulation and on reuse.
Weight-based fees under scrutiny
According to British Glass, glass has faced a disproportionate share of pEPR costs because fees are calculated by weight rather than by the number of packaging units placed on the market. The organisation said this has increased pressure on UK glass manufacturers from food and drink companies that purchase packaging by unit count rather than weight, leading some to switch from glass to lighter packaging materials.
British Glass argues that a weight-based structure does not adequately reflect the recyclability of glass.
Industry response
Nick Kirk, executive director of British Glass, said the government had listened and recognises the importance of maintaining a strong domestic glass industry.
He said the proposed changes begin to address some of the unintended consequences of pEPR and better recognise the environmental benefits of glass. The planned update to the 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, he added.
The exemption covers certain glass packaging supplied directly to licensed hospitality venues. Kirk said that while the full impact of the proposed exemption still needs to be understood, it is encouraging that the government recognises the challenges facing hospitality businesses and is taking steps to avoid unnecessary costs.
He added that British Glass particularly welcomes the forthcoming calls for evidence on modulation and reuse, and described the earlier introduction of higher modulation factors as an acceleration of the planned schedule.
Timing and pressures
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, noting that glass manufacturers are making decisions on investment, production and jobs now.
Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said the government had shown that it means business on tackling harmful packaging materials and protecting UK glass manufacturing.