Statistics released on Thursday 12 March show that the packaging obligations for 2014 have all been met, according to the National Packaging Waste Database.
Quarter 4 recycling figures show a large carry over in glass and plastic PRNs into 2015. Carry over can occur when tonnage is purchased in December; it can be used for meeting the obligation of the current year or alternatively put towards 2015 obligations.
Approximately 69,000 tonnes of glass and 65,000 tonnes of plastic were carried over into 2015. This is in contrast to around 13,000 tonnes of glass being carried over at the end of 2013 - the year which saw glass remelt prices rise to an estimated £80 per tonne.
In contrast, a far smaller amount of steel was carried over to 2015, nearly 24,000 tonnes, although the quarterly obligation of 87,500 tonnes was met comfortably. The size in this tonnage means it is unlikely there will be a reduction in the price of steel PRNs.
What does this mean for producers?
This is significant for producers, as it could mean falling PRN prices.
James Piper, Commercial Director at ecosurety, commented “It is great news for producers that the 2014 obligations have been met and created a healthy carry in position for 2015. This should lead to an immediate decrease in price across the more volatile materials, particularly welcome for producers with high plastic obligations.”
If you have any queries about this story do not hesitate to contact one of the team on 0845 094 2228 or email packaging@ecosurety.com.
Source: Lets Recycle
Robbie Staniforth
Innovation and policy director
Robbie is innovation and policy director at Ecosurety. Having spent years building an intimate understanding of the industry’s policies and politics, he uses this knowledge to help shape new legislation and oversees Ecosurety’s growing portfolio of cross-industry innovation projects including Podback and the Flexible Plastic Fund. He has worked closely with Defra during the most recent packaging consultations, outlining the impacts and required transitional arrangements of the UK’s new EPR system and is a member of the government’s Advisory Committee on Packaging (ACP). He is also a spokesperson for the company and regularly uses his influence to communicate the importance of environmental responsibility to external stakeholders.
Useful links
Whilst flexible plastic packaging has its benefits, it remains very challenging to recycle. Despite making up around 25% of all UK consumer packaging, only 8% of flexible plastics are recycled.
Read More >>The Q1 recycling figures released by the Environment Agency indicate a high-performance quarter, albeit supported by high PRN pricing.
Read More >>The DRS is set to be implemented in Scotland in 2024 with England following in 2025. All producers of in-scope drink containers will be required to meet a collection target set by government. Are you affected?
Read More >>
