What are PRNs and PERNs?

PRNs (Packaging Recycling Notes) and PERNs (Packaging Export Recycling Notes) are certificates issued by accredited UK recycling companies or exporters. They serve as proof that a specific amount of packaging waste has been recycled in the UK.

Every large organisation placing packaging on the UK market is required to fund the recycling equivalent to their packaging output. PRNs/PERNs are the way to show compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations.

How to Obtain PRNs and PERNs

  • Register on the UK Report Packaging Data (RPD) service.
  • Submit your packaging data and pay the associated registration fees.
  • Purchase PRNs or PERNs from accredited reprocessors or exporters to cover your recycling obligations. For every tonne of packaging rounded up to the nearest tonne, you will need to purchase a PRN or PERN, for the specific material type.
  • Keep records as proof of compliance for each material you place on the market.

Why PRNs and PERNs Matter

Using PRNs and PERNs ensures your business is legally compliant and supports the UK’s recycling targets. They demonstrate that the packaging you place on the market has been responsibly recycled and that your organisation is contributing to a circular economy.

Example: If you place 1,000 tonnes of paper packaging on the market, you must obtain PRNs/PERNs representing targets of the same recycling weight to support the UK’s recycling goals.

Packaging Recycling Targets 2025–2027

Material202520262027
Paper75%77%79%
Glass74%76%78%
Aluminium61%62%63%
Steel80%81%82%
Plastic55%57%59%
Wood45%46%47%

Note: These targets represent the minimum percentage of each packaging material that must be recycled annually.

Example: If you placed paper packaging on the market, you will need paper PRNs/PERNs equivalent to 75% of its weight.

How Remedy EPR Helps

Remedy EPR automatically recommends the right PRNs and PERNs for your packaging portfolio. It guides you through the purchasing process, ensures your compliance records are up-to-date, and provides step-by-step instructions to meet your EPR obligations.

Get Started with EPR Compliance and easily manage PRNs and PERNs today