WRAP and INCPEN are teaming up with the consulting arm of packaging compliance specialist, Valpak, to update the PackFlow materials reports.
The PackFlow reports are designed to quantify how much packaging is placed on the UK market (POM) and subsequently recycled. All five PackFlow materials reports covering glass, metal, paper, plastic and wood will be updated as part of the process.
In addition, the review will also seek to establish the impact and potential ramifications of COVID-19 on the packaging supply chain: from the ‘obligated producers’ including manufacturers, packer/fillers, retailers and brands, to households, and on the collection and recycling of that packaging (Local Authorities, waste management and recycling companies).
As always, the review will consult across the full spectrum of stakeholders with involvement and support from Defra as well as consultation with the devolved administrations and their associated bodies, the Advisory Committee on Packaging (ACP), materials sector bodies, the Compliance Scheme Forum and obligated producers.
The intention is to complete the project by the end of August 2020. This will enable its findings to be fed into the ongoing work by the UK governments and the ACP on PRN system issues which includes the need to set business recycling targets for the five materials in 2021 and 2022.
Commenting on the decision to update the reports, WRAP Director Peter Maddox, said: “The availability of accurate and up-to-date information is vital to inform the target setting process. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who takes the time to contribute to the review. Widespread participation across all stakeholders is the only way to develop a true picture of these markets, and the potential impact of the way that businesses operate and citizens live their lives.”
Paul Vanston, CEO at INCPEN, said: “The impacts of COVID-19 on our communities are tragic and far-reaching. While a sense of perspective is needed in terms of focusing on such things as the PRN system, we do nonetheless need to understand the impacts of COVID-19 on the operations of obligated producers and the knock-on consequences for 2021 and 2022. I’m reassured that this PackFlow review will help smooth the way in very challenging times.”
James Skidmore - Head of Consulting at Valpak - also commented saying: “Valpak Consulting is delighted to be helping businesses navigate through this unprecedented situation and is working closely with our partners INCPEN, WRAP and wider industry stakeholders”
ENDS
Editors’ Notes
WRAP is a not for profit organisation founded in 2000 which works with governments, businesses and citizens to create a world in which we source and use resources sustainably. Our impact spans the entire lifecycle of the food we eat, the clothes we wear and the products we buy, from production to consumption and beyond.
INCPEN is the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment. Its membership comprises UK, European and global manufacturers, brands, retailers, recyclers and reprocessors. In the UK alone, our members support over 600,000 jobs and £6 billion of economic value. INCPEN’s focus is to work with governments and the packaging value chain to improve and optimise systems so that packaging and the environment work in harmony and sustainably.
Valpak’s consultancy division helps public and private sector clients with all aspects of environmental strategy, packaging design, legislation and EPR. The highly experienced team provide unique insight into packaging choices, recycling and recyclability, environmental impact, waste minimisation and efficiency, waste management, energy and carbon reporting.
