Drinks industry challenges ‘flawed’ waste packaging scheme

The UK drinks industry has united in opposition to the government’s proposed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, arguing that the current design of the policy will place an excessive burden on businesses.

In a letter addressed to Environment Secretary Dr Thérèse Coffey, over 30 trade associations, including the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA), the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), and the National Association of Cider Makers (NACM) called for urgent revisions to the scheme. The letter argues that the EPR, as it stands, is not fit for purpose and could have unintended economic consequences.

The EPR scheme is set to make producers responsible for the full cost of managing packaging waste, a policy designed to encourage more sustainable packaging solutions and boost recycling rates. However, industry leaders have raised concerns that the current framework could see businesses facing disproportionately high costs, with some of these inevitably passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices.

Concerns over costs and feasibility

Miles Beale, Chief Executive of the WSTA, criticised the scheme in its current form: "The UK drinks industry is committed to increasing recycling rates and reducing waste. However, the proposed EPR scheme, as it stands, presents significant challenges that could hinder these goals and place undue financial strain on businesses."

The BBPA echoed these concerns, with its Chief Executive Emma McClarkin stating: "Our members are dedicated to sustainability, but the current EPR proposals risk unintended consequences. We urge the government to work collaboratively with the industry to develop a more feasible approach."

The NACM also warned that, without amendments, the scheme could have a negative impact on cider makers and other drinks producers across the UK.

The letter further criticises the speed at which the government plans to introduce the policy, arguing that businesses have not been given sufficient time to prepare for such a significant shift in responsibility. With the industry already facing rising costs from inflation, supply chain disruptions, and duty increases, trade associations are calling for a more balanced and realistic implementation plan.

A call for dialogue

Industry leaders have emphasised that they are not opposed to the principle of producer responsibility but argue that the current scheme lacks the necessary detail and flexibility to work in practice. Instead of implementing an EPR scheme that risks harming businesses and consumers, the letter urges the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with the drinks trade to develop a fairer and more effective system.

The drinks industry’s intervention comes at a time when the government is under increasing pressure to refine its environmental policies to ensure they are both practical and economically viable.

As the consultation process continues, businesses across the sector will be watching closely to see whether the government takes their concerns into account and revises the EPR framework to strike a better balance between sustainability and financial feasibility.