The FPA Friday Digest
23 October 2026
Welcome to this week's FPA Friday Digest.
Our lead story examines the continuing industry discussions with PackUK over the treatment of PFAS under RAM 2027. The FPA and Packaging Federation have raised important questions about the relationship between chemical safety requirements and packaging recyclability, alongside the need for robust scientific evidence and practical, proportionate compliance arrangements. PackUK's willingness to consider further technical evidence and testing approaches is a constructive development, with discussions continuing.
Elsewhere in packaging reform, PackUK and UK Packaging PRO have announced a new process for producers to help shape RAM 2028, while the latest PRN/PERN market data provides further information at a time of continuing scrutiny of the recycling evidence system. In Europe, the Parliament and Council have adopted differing positions on proposals to ease PPWR authorised representative requirements for smaller EU businesses, raising important questions for UK exporters.
We're also introducing 'Have your say', a new section bringing together consultations, research projects and calls for evidence where members can contribute their knowledge and experience to help shape policy and industry initiatives. We encourage you to take a look and get involved.
Finally, with less than two weeks until our Environment Seminar on 05 November, there's still time to join us at Stationers' Hall for a day of expert insight, discussion and networking. We hope to see you there.
PACKAGING REFORMS UPDATE
PackUK considers further PFAS testing options as industry questions RAM 2027 proposals
The FPA and Packaging Federation have raised concerns over the treatment of PFAS under the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) 2027, warning that proposed concentration thresholds could result in otherwise recyclable packaging receiving automatic red ratings and producers facing higher pEPR fees.
In separate submissions to PackUK's PFAS technical subgroup, both organisations have questioned the scientific evidence underpinning the proposals and the practicalities of demonstrating compliance.
The Packaging Federation has also provided supplementary evidence at PackUK's request, recommending that RAM retain the previous 'intentionally added PFAS' criterion unless alternative concentration thresholds can be justified by robust technical and economic evidence.
Under the published RAM 2027 methodology, packaging would receive an automatic red rating if it contains more than 1 part per million (ppm) of total PFAS or, for food packaging, exceeds 25 parts per billion (ppb) for any individual PFAS or total PFAS.
Recyclability versus chemical safety
A central concern is whether the proposed thresholds are appropriate for determining packaging recyclability, rather than compliance with chemical restrictions.
The Packaging Federation argues that RAM must distinguish between the ability to recycle packaging, the safety and quality of recovered materials and the commercial value of the resulting recyclate.
While acknowledging that PFAS contamination may affect recycling and viable end markets, it questions whether the proposed thresholds justify an automatic red rating without sufficient evidence of their impact on collection, sorting, reprocessing or the safe use of recovered materials.
The federation also questions the additional environmental benefit of automatic red modulation where PFAS reduces recyclate value, since anticipated revenues from recovered materials are already reflected in pEPR's net waste-management costs. Its concern is whether the proposed classification would deliver additional improvements in recycling outcomes.
Recycled content and compliance concerns
Both organisations have highlighted the risk of PFAS entering packaging unintentionally through recycled feedstock, background contamination or manufacturing processes.
The Packaging Federation cites published research demonstrating that PFAS can be present in recycled paper and plastic, although the studies do not establish how frequently UK packaging exceeds the proposed thresholds. It warns that penalising unintentional contamination could discourage the use of recycled materials in favour of virgin alternatives.
The FPA's Sustainability and Government Affairs (SAGA) Committee has separately called for practical compliance requirements, including acceptance of supplier declarations and packaging specifications where appropriate, rather than extensive laboratory testing across large product ranges.
It also recommends closer alignment with the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), particularly regarding testing methods, substances covered and the treatment of trace contamination.
However, the Packaging Federation stresses that compliance with PPWR chemical restrictions and recyclability assessments under RAM serve different purposes. It argues that alignment with European requirements should not, in itself, determine whether packaging receives an automatic red recyclability rating.
PackUK considers further technical approaches
Following feedback from its technical subgroup, PackUK is considering alternative approaches to PFAS testing and verification, including different screening arrangements for food-contact and non-food packaging.
The further engagement represents a constructive development, offering industry an opportunity to inform how the requirements might operate in practice.
However, fundamental questions remain about whether the proposed concentration thresholds are appropriate measures of recyclability and whether their application could have unintended consequences for recycling investment, material selection and the use of recycled content.
The Packaging Federation maintains that any changes to automatic red classification should be supported by transparent, material-specific evidence demonstrating their relevance to recycling outcomes.
Further technical discussions with PackUK are continuing.
Members with relevant PFAS testing results, recycling trial data or other technical evidence are encouraged to contribute. Further details can be found in our new Have Your Say section below.
FPA calls for proportionate, evidence-based requirements
Commenting on the submissions, the FPA said:
“We support the need for appropriate controls on PFAS, but RAM must remain a credible measure of packaging recyclability, supported by clear scientific evidence and practical compliance requirements.
“Producers need certainty about what evidence will be accepted to demonstrate compliance. Requiring extensive laboratory testing across potentially thousands of products, without practical alternative assurance routes, risks imposing an unreasonable burden on manufacturers and distributors.
“We are particularly concerned packaging could receive a red rating because compliance cannot be demonstrated, rather than because the material itself is difficult to recycle. There are also important questions about how unintentionally present PFAS should be treated and whether the requirements could inadvertently discourage the use of recycled materials.
“We are asking PackUK to retain the intentionally added distinction while the evidence is properly assessed, provide clear justification for any proposed concentration thresholds and align the approach as closely as possible with European requirements. The objective must be to protect the environment without introducing unnecessary complexity or undermining the recycling outcomes pEPR is intended to deliver”.
The FPA will continue to raise these concerns through PackUK's technical discussions and regular monthly meetings, working with the Packaging Federation and industry partners to identify further supporting evidence.
Read the published RAM 2027 guidance
Wales DRS waste contracts remain undecided as October 2027 launch approaches
Exchange for Change has confirmed that contracts for waste collection and processing under the Welsh Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) have yet to be awarded, despite the planned UK-wide launch in October 2027.
The Welsh scheme was excluded from the first round of logistics and processing contracts announced on 30 September, which covered England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Five contractors were appointed to provide services across those nations, including Suez, CIRQLR, Re.Group working with Hargreaves Services, Bywaters and Re-Gen.
According to Exchange for Change, Wales was not included in the original tender process because the organisation had not yet been formally appointed as the Welsh Deposit Management Organisation (DMO).
Its appointment for Wales was confirmed on 20 August, considerably later than its appointment for the other three UK nations.
Exchange for Change says it is now working to accelerate preparations for the Welsh programme and bring its delivery timetable closer to the rest of the UK.
The outstanding contracts raise further questions about the coordination of the schemes, particularly as Wales intends to include glass drinks containers alongside PET plastic bottles and aluminium and steel cans.
Under the Welsh proposals, glass will be included in a four-year transitional arrangement, initially carrying a zero-pence deposit and exemption from DRS-specific labelling requirements.
Industry representatives have previously warned that delays or significant differences between the national schemes could increase operational complexity and create opportunities for cross-border fraud.
The Welsh Government has maintained its commitment to launching the scheme in October 2027.
HAVE YOUR SAY
PFAS and RAM 2027 – technical evidence welcomed
Following submissions from the FPA, Packaging Federation and other stakeholders, PackUK is continuing technical discussions on the treatment of PFAS under RAM 2027, including possible approaches to testing and verification.
Members with relevant PFAS testing results, recycling trials or operational evidence are encouraged to contact the FPA. Information demonstrating how PFAS affects recyclability, recovered-material quality, viable end markets or the practical costs of testing would be particularly valuable.
The FPA is seeking to ensure that any requirements are scientifically justified, proportionate and workable across different packaging materials and supply chains.
Please contact the FPA with relevant technical evidence or practical experience. Commercially sensitive information can be discussed in confidence.
Government packaging producer survey – closes 20 November
The government's Product and Packaging Producer Survey 2026 is now open, seeking evidence of how pEPR and other circular-economy policies are affecting businesses.
Conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Defra and the devolved administrations, the research covers compliance costs, reporting requirements, packaging decisions and wider operational impacts.
The FPA strongly encourages producers receiving an invitation to participate, ensuring that government hears directly from businesses experiencing the practical and financial consequences of packaging reforms.
Please complete the survey using the link supplied in your invitation from Ipsos, Defra or your environmental regulator.
Help shape RAM 2028 – proposals invited by 31 December
UK Packaging PRO is inviting producers and other stakeholders to submit evidence-based proposals for changes to the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) for 2028.
Submissions should identify areas where the methodology could be improved, supported by practical experience, technical evidence or information about the impact of existing requirements.
UK Packaging PRO will assess the proposals and develop recommendations for PackUK, which retains responsibility for the final methodology.
Help improve paper cup recycling – UCL research
University College London is inviting packaging manufacturers, distributors, drinks retailers, waste management businesses and other stakeholders to help identify the barriers preventing paper takeaway cups from being recycled.
Funded by the National Cup Recycling Scheme's Beyond the Bin Fund, the research involves an online knowledge-mapping activity exploring practical obstacles to collection, sorting and recycling, and potential ways to overcome them.
The findings will help inform future industry initiatives, investment decisions and policy recommendations.
PPWR – are authorised representative costs
affecting your business?
The FPA is seeking evidence from members exporting packaging or packaged products into the EU about the cost and complexity of appointing authorised representatives under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
Concerns have been raised that proposed exemptions could benefit EU-established businesses without offering equivalent relief to UK exporters. One business has reportedly received an indicative quotation of €12,000–€15,000 annually for services covering just 13 EU Member States.
We would welcome details of costs quoted, countries involved and any difficulties members have experienced arranging compliance. Information can be treated confidentially on request.
Please contact the FPA with your experiences to help inform future industry representations.
Confidential input requested – help us build the evidence
The FPA continues to welcome confidential feedback from members about how packaging extended producer responsibility (pEPR) is operating in practice, particularly where the regulations may be creating unintended consequences or placing compliant businesses at a disadvantage.
We are interested in experiences relating to the scope and application of the regulations, enforcement, competitive fairness, potential market distortions and suspected avoidance of producer obligations. Practical examples and supporting evidence are particularly valuable.
Member intelligence helps strengthen the FPA's evidence base and informs our ongoing discussions with Defra, PackUK and the Environment Agency, ensuring that concerns arising across the industry are brought to the attention of policymakers and regulators.
Have you encountered an issue we should be aware of? Please contact the FPA compliance team at compliance@foodservicepackaging.org.uk
All information will be treated sensitively, with confidentiality respected when considering how evidence may be used in policy discussions.
IN BRIEF
Defra confirms PPWR falls outside proposed
UK–EU SPS agreement
Defra has confirmed that the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) falls outside the scope of the proposed UK–EU sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement, although negotiations concerning the regulation are continuing.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Conservative MP Mike Wood, environment minister Emma Hardy confirmed that EU legislation governing food-contact materials, including those used during food production, storage and serving, is within the scope of the proposed SPS agreement.
However, PPWR requirements are not covered by those arrangements, meaning UK foodservice packaging manufacturers and exporters may need to navigate separate regulatory obligations relating to food-contact materials and packaging waste.
Hardy also confirmed that Defra and the Food Standards Agency are engaging with industry on the technical changes required by the proposed agreement.
Government publishes UK carbon border adjustment figures ahead of 2027 launch
Government has published default emissions values and illustrative carbon rates for the UK's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which takes effect on 01 January 2027. The mechanism will apply to imports of specified emissions-intensive goods, including aluminium, iron and steel, alongside cement, fertilisers and hydrogen. Importers will be able to use government-defined default emissions values where verified actual emissions data is unavailable. The values for 2027 and 2028 incorporate a 10% uplift for most sectors, with country-specific figures planned from 2029. The publication gives affected importers greater clarity about calculating potential liabilities.
Read the government's announcement
Defra publishes latest PRN/PERN market data
Defra and the Environment Agency have updated their monthly packaging waste dataset, providing the latest information on recycling and export tonnages, PRNs/PERNs issued, average evidence prices and waste balances held by accredited reprocessors and exporters.
The figures, updated on 21 October, include material credited to operators' waste balances, providing greater visibility of packaging waste for which recycling evidence has been or could subsequently be issued. This information was introduced following industry calls for greater transparency in the PRN/PERN market.
The update is particularly relevant following the recent regulatory intervention over evidence availability. However, the latest month's figures have not yet been reviewed by regulators and may change following late submissions or corrections.
View the latest PRN/PERN market data
Luton Airport plans expansion of reusable cup schemes
London Luton Airport is planning to expand its reusable cup schemes as part of a renewed five-year waste management contract with Cawleys, a subsidiary of Suez. The contract covers airside and landside waste operations and includes measures to improve recycling performance and operational efficiency, alongside the introduction of solar-powered compactors and exploration of waste-to-fuel opportunities. The planned expansion provides a further example of reusable cup systems being considered in high-footfall foodservice environments.
ELSEWHERE ...
Hospitality sector backs initiative to create opportunities for 100,000 young people
Major hospitality businesses, including McDonald's, Nando's, Wagamama, Compass and Sodexo, are partnering with government and UKHospitality on an initiative targeting employment and training opportunities for 100,000 young people aged 18–24 who are not in education, employment or training. Over three years, participating businesses will offer paid jobs, work experience and training. The initiative also highlights the sector's role in attracting and developing emerging talent, an objective shared by the FPA's new Young & Emerging Professionals programme. Government has not specified how many of the opportunities will be additional to employers' existing recruitment plans.
IKEA invests £30m in technology to reduce packaging waste
IKEA is investing £30m in automated packaging technology at its Peterborough distribution centre, introducing equipment that produces cardboard boxes tailored to individual customer orders. The retailer says the PackSize system can reduce packaging material use by up to 30% and void-fill materials by up to 60%, while increasing the proportion of parcels processed through automation from 47% to 75% by 2027. A further £1.5m investment in regional fulfilment at Doncaster is expected to reduce delivery emissions and transport distances.
Belu calls for more proportionate pEPR rules for
hospitality suppliers
Drinks producer and social enterprise Belu has questioned whether the UK's packaging extended producer responsibility (pEPR) scheme adequately reflects the circumstances of businesses supplying hospitality and other commercial markets.
Speaking to Food Manufacture, chief executive Charlotte Harrington described the implementation of pEPR as too simplistic, arguing that it fails to distinguish sufficiently between packaging entering household waste collections and packaging managed through commercial waste services.
Belu supplies much of its bottled water to hospitality and corporate customers, where businesses already pay commercial contractors for waste collection and recycling. Harrington questioned whether the resulting cost arrangements adequately recognise these differences and called for a more proportionate approach.
She also raised concerns about the treatment of charity-owned social enterprises. Belu donates its operating profits to WaterAid and believes the regulations do not sufficiently reflect the circumstances of businesses operating for charitable purposes.
While supporting the principle that producers should take responsibility for packaging waste, Harrington argued the current approach doesn't adequately recognise different business models. She confirmed that Belu has raised its concerns with MPs and Defra, including the need for stronger representation of smaller businesses and the hospitality sector in policy development.
The comments add to wider industry debate about the scope, fairness and practical application of pEPR, particularly for businesses whose packaging is predominantly supplied into commercial rather than household waste streams.
UWE Bristol launches deposit-free reusable cup trial
The University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) has launched a reusable coffee-cup trial across six locations at its Frenchay campus, aiming to reduce the thousands of disposable cups used annually. The Lendable scheme allows students and staff to borrow reusable cups without paying a deposit, registering or using an app, returning them to designated collection points for washing and reuse. Developed with partners including Ecosurety, SUEZ, Re-uz UK and Hubbub, the initiative will test whether removing barriers to participation can encourage more widespread cup reuse.
Hospitality earnings fall for first time in more than two years
Average weekly earnings in the UK accommodation and food services sector fell by 1.4% year-on-year, from £354 in August 2025 to £349 in August 2026, according to the latest Office for National Statistics figures reported by Restaurant. Vacancies also fell by 7%, from 75,000 to 70,000, comparing the three months to September in each year. Industry commentators suggest the figures reflect continued pressure on employment costs and hiring, although changes in average earnings can also be influenced by workforce composition rather than pay reductions alone.
EUROPE
EU institutions advance PPWR EPR relief proposals, but UK exporters remain outside proposed exemptions
The European Parliament and Council of the EU have agreed separate negotiating positions on proposals to ease extended producer responsibility (EPR) authorised representative requirements under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
MEPs voted on 20 October to support suspending the requirements for qualifying small and micro businesses established within the EU until 2035, or until new circular-economy legislation replaces the arrangements.
The following day, the Council agreed a different approach, proposing relief for EU-established producers placing less than one tonne of packaging annually on another Member State's market. Its position envisages the suspension expiring in 2032, subject to a review by December 2030.
The differences will need to be resolved through negotiations between the two institutions before any legislative changes can take effect.
Crucially for UK packaging manufacturers and exporters, neither position extends the proposed relief to businesses established outside the EU.
The developments follow European Commission guidance published on 19 October explaining existing administrative flexibilities for smaller producers and encouraging proportionate enforcement while legislative changes are considered.
The FPA has been seeking evidence from members about the costs and administrative difficulties associated with appointing authorised representatives across EU markets. The latest proposals reinforce concerns that UK businesses could continue to face requirements from which some EU-based competitors may be exempted.
Members experiencing these difficulties are encouraged to contribute through the FPA's Have Your Say section above.
Useful links:
Read the Council's announcement
Read the European Parliament vote coverage
Access the European Commission guidance
German plastic packaging tax stalls amid coalition opposition
Plans for a new €550-per-tonne tax on plastic packaging in Germany have encountered significant political opposition, with the draft legislation failing to secure cabinet agreement as expected.
The proposals, which would introduce the tax from July 2027, have drawn criticism from industry associations and members of the governing coalition over their potential impact on manufacturing costs, competitiveness and administrative burdens.
INTERNATIONAL
Hawaiian foodservice reuse programme opts for metal containers over plastic
A new reusable foodservice packaging programme being developed in Hilo, Hawaii, is adopting metal-based containers rather than conventional reusable plastic packaging.
The programme, known as Ho'i, meaning 'return', is being developed with support from reuse systems organisation Perpetual and is intended to operate across participating foodservice businesses.
The proposed system will allow customers to receive food in reusable containers and return them through a shared network, rather than relying on individual restaurants to operate separate return and washing arrangements.
South Korea proposes new packaging compliance
inspection regime
South Korea has published draft regulations setting out how a new packaging management support centre will oversee compliance with the country's packaging standards. The centre's role is intended to support enforcement of existing requirements governing packaging materials and packaging methods, providing a more coordinated approach to monitoring compliance.
For international packaging suppliers, the proposals illustrate the growing emphasis on enforcement and verification as governments move from introducing packaging requirements to ensuring businesses comply with them.
OTHER NEWS
UK
The Grocer: Supermarkets and manufacturers renew calls for the PRN system to be scrapped ahead of the Budget, following the Government's recent intervention in the packaging recycling evidence market. Read more here
letsrecycle.com: Ecosurety's Robbie Staniforth argues that greater transparency about the information available to regulators could help rebuild confidence in the PRN market. Read more here
RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY
Packaging Europe: Recycled polymer procurement platform raises €5.1m to improve access to material quality and supply-chain information. Read more here
Packaging Europe: UPM, Ingredion and Paramelt investigate starch-based grease barriers for recyclable paper food packaging, with an initial packaging structure passing laboratory recyclability testing. Read more here
Packaging Europe: Industrial trials involving Z1RO and Kiefel explore the use of bamboo, hemp and fallen leaves in moulded-fibre coffee lids and packaging trays. Read more here
Packaging Europe: Cirkla, Belmark and Ossid unveil a resealable fibre-based food tray for applications including fresh protein, produce and ready meals. Read more here
EUROPE
Packaging Europe: New Italian plastics recycling facility opens with capacity to process up to 30,000 tonnes of rigid plastics annually, following a €48.8m investment. Read more here
Plastipak: €25m PET material centre opens in Italy, producing packaging resin containing 30% recycled plastic. Read more here
Packaging Europe: Consortium involving Unilever, Nestlé and PepsiCo explores recyclable flexible paper packaging. Read more here
INTERNATIONAL
Reuters: Silgan and American Industrial Partners announce a $3.4bn transaction involving Trivium Packaging, creating a major metal packaging business serving international food and beverage markets. Read more here
Packaging Europe: Consumer Goods Forum publishes guidance on packaging design to improve recycling and support waste pickers in lower-income countries. Read more here
FPA NEWS & EVENTS
FPA in the news
PackNode: FPA launches Young & Emerging Professionals initiative for foodservice packaging sector
Packaging News: Regulators intervene over PRN undersupply as FPA calls for fundamental review of 2027 targets
Packaging Scotland: New initiative aims to help attract next generation of foodservice packaging professionals
Packaging News: FPA launches Young & Emerging Professionals initiative
PPWR: Are authorised representative requirements creating additional costs for UK exporters?
The FPA is seeking feedback from members exporting packaging or packaged products to the EU about the potential costs of complying with the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
Concerns have been raised that emerging proposals to ease the requirement to appoint an authorised representative for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in individual EU Member States may benefit EU-established businesses without extending equivalent relief to UK exporters.
The British Coatings Federation has highlighted an example of one of its members receiving an indicative quotation of €12,000 to €15,000 annually to cover just 13 EU Member States. If replicated more widely, these costs could place UK exporters at a competitive disadvantage.
We would like to hear from FPA members who have encountered similar requirements or received quotations for authorised representative services. In particular, we would welcome details of the countries involved, indicative annual costs and any difficulties businesses have experienced in arranging compliance.
Your feedback will help establish the scale of the issue.
Please contact FPA Company Secretary, Lisa McGowan with your experiences. Information will be treated confidentially.
Useful link: the European Commissions's guidance on packaging EPr requirements
FPA launches Young & Emerging Professionals initiative to help build the sector’s next generation
The FPA has introduced FPA Young & Emerging Professionals (YEP), a new initiative designed to help attract new talent to the sector, support people at the beginning of their careers and give emerging professionals a stronger voice in the future of the sector.
The programme will launch at the FPA Environment Seminar on Thursday 05 November 2026 at Stationers’ Hall, London, with 10 complimentary places available to young and emerging professionals nominated by FPA member companies.
Those selected will become the founding YEP cohort, with their places at the seminar giving them the opportunity to build their industry knowledge, make connections beyond their own organisations and contribute their perspectives as the programme develops.
Built around four ambitions – attract, connect, develop and amplify – YEP will help showcase the breadth of opportunities available across foodservice packaging.
“YEP is about changing that. We want to help emerging professionals understand the wider industry they are part of, meet people outside their own businesses, develop their knowledge and confidence and, importantly, have a voice in the discussions that will shape their careers.
“We also want to help our members recognise and develop the talent already within their organisations while creating stronger links with the vocational, technical, STEM and other pathways that can bring new people into the sector.
“The Environment Seminar is the ideal place to begin. It gives our first YEP cohort access to many of the people and issues shaping the future of foodservice packaging – and we want them to help us shape what YEP becomes next”.
Contributors include senior spokespeople from PackUK, UK Packaging PRO, the Environment Agency, OPRL, 360° Foodservice, Carbon Trust, Ecosurety, SUEZ, The LCA Center, Greyparrot, Incpen and the Packaging Federation.
The seminar will also feature Robbie Staniforth and James Piper from Talking Rubbish.
The programme will explore:
- What the first year of EPR has taught industry and what comes next.
- How government, regulators and businesses can work together to deliver better regulation.
- The challenges facing manufacturers as UK and European requirements evolve.
- Sustainable packaging and product design.
- AI, life cycle assessment and emerging technologies and their role in better environmental decision-making.
- Accreditation and consumer confidence.
- Strengthening compliance and enforcement.
Useful links:
Find out more about FPA Young & Emerging Professionals
View the full programme and book tickets for the FPA Environment Seminar
Confidential input requested
Businesses with concerns about how pEPR is operating in practice – including issues relating to scope, competition, enforcement or unintended consequences, are invited to share their experiences in confidence with the FPA. We also welcome intelligence on potential gaps in scope, market distortions or suspected avoidance behaviours, which can be shared in confidence.
This insight is invaluable in ensuring industry concerns are effectively represented in our ongoing engagement with Defra, PackUK and the Environment Agency.
Please contact the compliance team directly via compliance@foodservicepackaging.org.uk. All information will be handled sensitively and used to inform our evidence base and policy discussions.
EXTERNAL EVENTS & PARTNER NEWS
Margaret Bates recognised with Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr Margaret Bates has received a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of more than three decades of work across recycling, resource management and environmental policy.
The award was presented at the London Packaging Week Innovation Awards, recognising Margaret’s contribution across government, industry and academia – most recently including her role in establishing PackUK and the infrastructure for the UK’s packaging extended producer responsibility system.
Margaret said she was surprised by the recognition and described packaging as a sector that is often taken for granted despite its importance to the UK economy, public health, resilience and waste reduction. She added that she still has “a lot to give” to the industry.
The Packaging Federation also provided one of the lighter moments at awards making a promise to diners in the awards programme: “And the good news is… no RAM will be served tonight”, accompanied by the equally neat line, “We help you digest the complexities of packaging.” The topical play on the Recyclability Assessment Methodology drew plenty of smiles and comment around the room.
Defra Circular Economy stakeholder forum dates
Defra's Circular Economy Joint Stakeholder Forums provide businesses and other stakeholders with regular updates on packaging, waste and wider circular economy reforms.
Stakeholders will hear updates from Defra's Circular Economy Directorate, PackUK, the Environment Agency and other relevant bodies, learn about policy and operational developments, and have an opportunity to put questions to officials.
The link is different each month, so it is important to use the correct link for each session. Microsoft Teams will then send a calendar invite automatically for the date you have registered.
Upcoming forums:
Tuesday 03 November
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Register for 03 November session
Tuesday 01 December
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Register for 01 December session
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