Key Deadlines in Packaging and Waste, 2026 and Beyond

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) enters a decisive phase from 2026 onwards. With increased reporting obligations and the introduction of the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) and modulated fees, producers will face increasing scrutiny over the accuracy and completeness of their packaging reporting. At the same time, new obligations – such as nation-of-sale reporting, self-managed organisation waste, and the expansion of Simpler Recycling – will further reshape how businesses manage packaging data and design decisions.

Early preparation, robust data governance and proactive engagement with RAM will be critical for avoiding penalties, minimising costs and ensuring confident compliance.

The timeline below outlines the key regulatory milestones from 2025 through to 2028, highlighting what producers need to do and when. These dates reflect the most up-to-date information available at the time of writing, and we will continue to provide updates as further guidance is released.

(Click on the timeline below to open it in a new tab.)

As EPR moves into full implementation, RAM will play an increasingly decisive role in determining producers’ compliance costs. Each year, the modulation of fees becomes more stringent, making accurate recyclability assessments essential for cost control, risk reduction and long-term packaging strategy.

Now is the time to strengthen your data processes, review packaging specifications and take steps to improve recyclability ahead of future submissions. If you would like support navigating RAM, modulated fees or wider EPR reporting requirements, our team can guide you through the process and introduce you to RAM Assess – our dedicated platform for accurate data, confident reporting and smarter packaging decisions.

Preparing early positions your organisation to manage 2026 obligations effectively and remain competitive as regulatory expectations continue to evolve.