Key Takeaways

  • Clarify your obligations: Understand which businesses must submit a packaging methodology under the UK EPR framework.
  • Incorporate recyclability assessments: From October 2025, your methodology must cover RAM-based recyclability evaluations.
  • Ensure compliance and clarity: Learn how to structure your methodology, gather supporting data, and submit it correctly.

Introduction

Under the UK Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, businesses responsible for placing packaging on the market must maintain accurate data and demonstrate transparency. Preparing a clear and structured packaging methodology helps show how data is collected, verified, and recorded.

A well-maintained methodology supports regulatory compliance, promotes consistent reporting, and safeguards against operational or staff changes that may impact data accuracy.

Important: From 1 October 2025, all methodologies must document recyclability assessments following the RAM guidelines.

Who Must Submit a Methodology

Online marketplaces facilitating sales by non-UK sellers to UK consumers are required to submit a methodology annually. The submission deadline is 1 April for the previous calendar year.

For example, your 2025 methodology should be submitted by 1 April 2026.

Other Producers

While optional for other producers, having a methodology can demonstrate good data governance, help maintain accuracy, and simplify audits by regulators.

  • Evidence a clear and reliable process for data collection.
  • Provide continuity if staff or suppliers change.
  • Facilitate smoother compliance inspections or audits.

Key Components of Your Methodology

Your methodology should cover the following areas:

  • Summary of scope, purpose, and any exclusions.
  • Sampling approach, including size, selection criteria, and justification.
  • Recyclability assessment details per RAM.
  • Technology and IT systems used for data collection and processing.
  • Supporting data, validation, and quality assurance measures.
  • Plans for continuous improvement and updates.

Recyclability Assessment

From October 2025, methodologies must explain how packaging recyclability was evaluated under RAM. This includes assessment frequency, recording evidence, and noting any exempt items such as medical packaging.

Technology and Data Management

Clearly document your IT systems, data storage, and processing workflow. Include:

  • Systems for data collection and version control.
  • Backup routines and retention periods.
  • Responsibilities for data review, approval, and submission.

Continuous Improvement

Update your methodology at least once per reporting cycle. Adjust for supplier changes, new packaging formats, or updated material types. Regulators expect businesses to show continuous enhancement of data quality and accuracy.

Submission Deadlines

Submit your methodology by 1 April every year. If your methodology has not changed, you must still confirm this to your regulator via email. Any updated methodology should be submitted promptly alongside revised packaging data.

How Remedy EPR Can Help

Remedy EPR provides a complete platform for UK businesses to manage packaging data and comply with evolving EPR regulations. Our tools streamline data collection, reporting, and analysis, allowing you to stay ahead of deadlines and regulatory changes.

Simplified Data Collection

Automate packaging data input, track material types, and maintain an audit-ready record for every reporting cycle.

RAM Recyclability Assessment

Conduct assessments according to the UK RAM methodology with automated workflows and clear documentation for regulators.

Accurate Reporting & Submissions

Generate compliant reports quickly, submit methodologies to regulators, and track approval status directly within the platform.

Continuous Compliance Monitoring

Receive alerts for regulatory changes, deadlines, and data inconsistencies to avoid penalties and maintain accuracy year-round.

Expert Guidance & Support

Our EPR and RAM specialists are available to advise on methodology preparation, best practices, and process improvements to ensure smooth submissions.