British Glass has welcomed UK government plans to change packaging extended producer responsibility (pEPR) fees for glass, including an exemption for certain glass packaging supplied directly to licensed hospitality venues. The measures include an update to the material value assigned to glass packaging and plans to introduce higher modulation factors for less recyclable packaging materials from the third year of pEPR. The government will also issue calls for evidence on fee modulation and reuse.
British Glass has argued that glass has faced a disproportionate share of pEPR costs because fees are calculated by weight rather than by the number of packaging units placed on the market. According to the organisation, this has increased pressure on UK glass manufacturers from food and drink companies that purchase packaging by units rather than weight, prompting a switch from glass to lighter packaging materials.
What the planned changes cover
The planned measures would update the material value assigned to glass packaging. They would also introduce higher modulation factors for less recyclable packaging materials from the third year of pEPR, while the government seeks evidence on fee modulation and reuse. British Glass noted that the reforms will not take effect until the scheme's third year, covering April 2027 to March 2028. The exemption covers certain glass packaging supplied directly to licensed hospitality venues.
Nick Kirk, executive director of British Glass, said the government had listened and recognised the importance of maintaining a strong domestic glass industry. He said the proposed changes begin to address some of the unintended consequences of pEPR and better recognise the environmental benefits of glass. Kirk cited the planned update to the glass material value, the proposed acceleration of modulation factors and the commitment to review future fee structures as steps that move the system in a fairer direction.
Kirk said it was important to understand the full impact of the proposed exemption. He added that it was encouraging to see the government recognising the challenges facing hospitality businesses and taking steps to avoid unnecessary costs. British Glass said it particularly welcomed the forthcoming calls for evidence on modulation and reuse.
Pressure remains on manufacturers
The organisation said glass manufacturers continue to face high energy costs, international competition and uncertainty surrounding future packaging policy. Kirk said the process must be the start rather than the end, adding that glass manufacturers are making decisions on investment, production and jobs now.
Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said the government had shown that it means business when it comes to tackling harmful packaging materials and protecting UK glass manufacturing.