UK & EU Packaging Compliance: A Simple Guide

Packaging and environmental regulations are changing across the UK and EU. At TCS Europe, we work to understand the regulations affecting the products and packaging we source, helping our clients manage compliance, responsible sourcing and supply-chain risk.

Here is a simple overview of four key areas.

UK Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT)

The UK Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) applies to plastic packaging manufactured in or imported into the UK that contains less than 30% recycled plastic. Businesses manufacturing or importing 10 tonnes or more of plastic packaging within a 12-month period may need to register.

At TCS, we record and report applicable plastic packaging data to HMRC and look for opportunities to use recycled-content materials where appropriate.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (EPR) makes businesses responsible for more of the environmental and end-of-life costs of packaging they place on the UK market.

Businesses supplying or importing more than 25 tonnes of packaging with annual worldwide turnover of £1 million or more may have EPR obligations. The specific reporting and financial requirements depend on the size and activities of the business.

TCS collects and reports applicable packaging data as part of our compliance responsibilities.

EU Packaging & Environmental Regulations

These regulations may also be relevant to products and packaging we supply into Ireland and other EU countries.

Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has applied across the EU since 12 August 2026. It introduces requirements designed to reduce packaging waste and improve recyclability, recycled content, labelling and reuse.

At TCS, we work with our factories and supply partners to obtain appropriate packaging information and supporting documentation to help meet applicable requirements.

EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is designed to ensure that certain commodities and products placed on or exported from the EU market are not linked to deforestation or forest degradation.

It covers commodities including wood, rubber, cocoa, coffee, cattle, palm oil and soy, together with specified products made from them.

EUDR does not automatically apply to every product containing paper, wood or rubber. Whether a product is covered depends on whether it falls within the products listed in the Regulation. For products that are in scope, supply-chain traceability and information such as sourcing and geolocation data may be required.

The current implementation date is 30 December 2026, or 30 June 2027 for micro and small operators not already covered by the EU Timber Regulation.

How TCS Helps

Compliance can be complex and requirements continue to evolve.

TCS is not a regulatory consultancy, but we take our responsibilities seriously. We work closely with our factories, testing partners and specialist consultants to understand the requirements affecting the products and packaging we source.

Our aim is simple: to maintain appropriate documentation, identify potential compliance issues early and help our clients reduce risk when sourcing products from overseas.

If you would like to know more about PPT, EPR, PPWR, EUDR or how a particular regulation may affect your next project, please talk to the TCS team.

We are always happy to share what we have learned and the processes we have put in place.