OPRL has launched a new recyclability assessment tool designed to help brands make informed choices around packaging design and reduce financial obligations under pEPR.
Alice Harlock, director of technical and member services at OPRL, described the latest development as an ‘important stage’ in the journey to increase recyclability and meet the demands of extended producer responsibility for packaging (pEPR).
She said, “With the arrival of modulated fees in 2026, non-recyclable packaging will be charged at a higher rate, so any work to improve recyclability now will be well-rewarded. OPRL’s previous tools were designed to help our members choose the appropriate recycling label, but the new recyclability assessment tool isn’t just for packaging on the shelves; it can be used at any stage of the design process to improve recyclability.
“This capacity to assess recyclability and provide advice for improvement not only enhances the environmental impact of packaging, but also benefits our members’ bottom line. At this stage, the tool applies OPRL metrics and industry expertise to assess recyclability. However, once the official list of recyclable and non-recyclable materials is released, we will align our tools with Defra’s recyclability assessment ,ethodology (RAM).”
Members will already be familiar with OPRL’s labelling tool, which determines the correct recycling label and provides print-ready artwork. The new recyclability assessment tool analyses a greater range of data, including the size and weight of components, as well as areas like packaging type, materials, and laminations or coatings. The resulting recyclability assessments can be saved in the tool or downloaded for future reference.
Alice concluded, “At such a time of change, brands are looking for help to navigate uncertain waters. Companies know that improving recyclability is a fundamental step towards reducing pEPR costs, but without insight into current and future choices, many are struggling.
“We are already seeing interest from businesses looking to apply the new OPRL tool to analyse designs. And as pEPR comes into force, we will continue to adapt to support our members to meet these new challenges.”
To be eligible for OPRL’s ‘recycle’ label, packaging must be collected by more than 75% of local authorities, sorted and reprocessed to end markets. OPRL’s labelling guidance is subject to scrutiny from a technical advisory committee, comprising representatives from across the value chain, including brands and retailers, trade associations, reprocessors, local authorities, and experts such as climate action NGO WRAP.
