MPMA challenges PackUK’s reverse return scheme because metal packaging is incorrectly valued

PackUK launches as a Pepr administrator with a number of questions from MPMA. In an open letter, Jason Galley, director and chief executive of the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA), expresses his response to the formal launch of PackUK.

DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) describes the implementation of the pEPR as ‘a critical step towards creating a circular economy’ that will achieve a reduction in UK emissions of an estimated 32 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2037.

In this regard, while the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association supports DEFRA’s overall objective of creating a circular economy and improving packaging recycling rates, the metal packaging sector’s views on the scheme are clear and question these claims.

“In their current form, EPR tariffs do not correctly price metal packaging, making it more expensive compared to lighter materials, regardless of whether the latter have lower circularity attributes. The need to mitigate EPR tariffs will encourage a shift by producers to materials other than steel, despite the fact that steel is recycled time and time again and has the highest recycling rate of any packaging material in the UK. The proposed tariffs go in the opposite direction to that of a truly circular economy.

“So far, Defra has chosen to ignore reasoned representations in favor of fair EPR tariffs.The result? Steel packaging is under threat, despite being the greatest asset in achieving a circular economy and ensuring the UK’s food security. No other packaging protects its contents better.

“Let’s hope that the PackUK Steering Group and Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh, who will be speaking at the Packaging Innovations event next month to mark the launch of PackUK, will focus on resolving this absurd situation which, without intervention, will negatively impact the creation of a true circular economy. It’s time for Defra to deliver on its promise to implement a fair and efficient scheme.”