Extended Producer Responsibility
- What is EPR?
- How does it work?
- Who needs to comply?
What is EPR?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy that holds producers accountable for the entire life cycle of their products. It’s not just about creating goods; it’s about ensuring their proper recycling or disposal when they are no longer useful. This policy encourages companies to consider environmental impacts in their product designs, resulting in items that are easier to repair, recycle, and are more sustainable long after their primary use.
Why do I need EPR?
In the EU, a European directive mandates Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for e-commerce sellers, directly impacting online businesses. By 2024, all EU countries will enforce EPR, making it essential for e-commerce sellers to comply.
Compliance varies by country, but adhering to these laws isn’t optional—it’s a requirement for operating your e-commerce business within the European Union.
How does the EPR process work?
The EPR process typically involves registering with the appropriate authorities, maintaining documentation, and making filings. EPR schemes often require periodic reporting on the quantity and type of packaging you introduce to the market.
You’ll need to categorize your products and packaging. Based on this data, you’ll pay fees that support the collection, sorting, and recycling of your packaging waste.
Keep in mind that specific steps can vary by country, so always check the local regulations.
Why EPR matters
Protect the Environment
EPR helps prevent waste and environmental damage by making producers accountable for their products from start to finish. This encourages greener designs, safeguarding resources and protecting the planet.
Capital Support
EPR fees fund the recycling process, helping to build the infrastructure needed to manage waste more effectively. This support is essential for advancing eco-friendly technologies and practices.
Internalise Costs
EPR requires producers to factor the environmental costs of their products into the selling price. This encourages sustainable innovation, as they must cover waste management expenses, aligning their financial interests with environmental stewardship.
How does an EPR application work?
Indicate where you want to be EPR compliant
We can arrange it in any EU country.
We do the tricky paperwork and calculations
If you tell us what kind of products and packaging you work with.
Successful,
you are compliant!
Then you can get back to selling worry-free.
Want to outsource your EPR filings?
We’re happy to take on the task. Just provide us with information about the products you sell and their packaging.
What does Staxxer need?
- Type of materials
- Quantity of materials
- Recycling information
Overview for each country
Registering mandatory from | Name of the register | Additonal obligations on products | Maximum fine | |
Germany | 0 g | LUCID | No | €200.000 |
France | 0 g | ADEME | No | €100.000 |
Italy | 300 kg | IVC | No | €2.000.000 |
Spain | 0 g | ECOEMBES | Green Dot | No maximum |
Belgium | 300 kg | IVC | No | €2.000.000 |
Poland | 0 g | BDO | BDO number on invoices | €220.000 |
United Kingdom | 50.000/10.000 kg | NPWD/HMRC PPT | No | No maximum0 |
Czech Republic | >300 kg & >25 millon CZK | EKO-KOM | No | 10.000.000 CZK |
Austria | 0 g | register with waste operator | No | €200.000 |
Sweden | 0 g | Naturvårdsverket | No | No maximum |
What happens if you don’t have EPR?
- Legal penalties
You could face legal action, including fines or other legal sanctions, for failing to comply with EPR regulations. - Financial fines
Non-compliance with EPR regulations may lead to financial penalties, impacting revenue and profitability. - Loss of reputation
Violating EPR regulations can damage reputation, leading to a loss of consumer trust and loyalty. - Barred from selling
In severe cases, you might be prohibited from selling products in a country if you consistently fail to adhere to EPR regulations. - Environmental impact
By not complying with EPR regulations, you can contribute to environmental harm through improper disposal or management of waste.
The benefits of outsourcing to Staxxer:
- No fines and penalties
Count on us to ensure your EPR matters are handled correctly. - Worry-free selling
Don’t worry about being barred from selling in a country: we handle your compliance, so you can sell worry-free. - Enhanced reputation
Partnering with us can improve reputation, demonstrating their commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. - Save time
Staxxer handling compliance allows you to focus on core business activities, saving time and resources. - Expertise
By outsourcing compliance to us, you benefit from our expertise in EPR regulations, ensuring that all requirements are met efficiently and accurately.
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Let's take a better look!
EPR regulations can be different in each EU country. Check the guides below for EPR regulations in a specific country.
EPR guide for Spain
EPR guide for France
EPR guide for Germany
Dealing with EPR registrations
We know it can be a hassle to figure out which EPR registrations you need exactly, since the rules are different in each country.
We’re here to help – talk to one of our experts to find a solution that fits your business.
EPR demo for e-commerce
Want to explore your options? Talk to one of our consultants!
EPR and VAT consultant