Q2 2025 recycling data reveals mixed recycling performance

Arguably, the most uncertain year since the regulations were introduced in 1997, the EPR transition year has so far avoided the kind of price volatility we got used to during the Covid years. Obligations are broadly competitive, recycling performance has been mixed, and the markets are responding rationally to the data fundamentals. 

Plastic – high risk 

Plastic obligation is around 7% higher than last year and in-year performance has been slow. Unless performance improves in the latter part of the year, the 50 thousand tonnes of carry-in may be crucial in achieving compliance. In terms of price, the market is decidedly bullish, with prices being almost double what they were coming into the year. 

Glass – high risk 

Glass is a high-risk material this year. Despite the obligation being lower than last year, PRN generation has struggled to keep up. Crucially, neither type of glass is on track to meet in-year compliance. The extremely weak performance of glass aggregate places added pressure on glass remelt, which will now need to overperform to cover the shortfall.  

Aluminium – medium risk 

Aluminium had a better result in Q2 than in Q1, with 5 thousand tonnes more recycling. This has helped soften the price somewhat in recent weeks, although it is still almost triple what it was in January. Even so, it is a tight market, and any reduction in output will increase the risk of noncompliance. 

Steel – low risk 

Steel is not a material of concern this year: carry-in was strong and in-year performance has so far exceeded target. Steel is a declining packaging material, with obligation being 2% lower than last year and prices remaining stable. 

Paper – low risk

Paper had a below-average performance in Q2. Despite this, strong recycling data in Q1 and a significant carry-in from last year mean that the risk of noncompliance is low. With 63% of obligation having already been achieved, supply remains high, and prices are low relative to recent years.  

Wood – low risk 

Despite a very slow H1 and an increased recycling target, wood looks on course to achieve compliance comfortably. Prices have remained fairly flat and significant fluctuation seems unlikely at this point. 

Looking ahead 

The 2025-Q2 data show poor performance overall, on the back of a weak Q1. It looks to be a tight year for some materials, and prices could become volatile as a result.  

Ecosurety will continue to communicate changes in the PRN market throughout the year. You can access the PRN market tracker that provides a daily update on market pricing trends and performance by clicking here.