OVER half (53%) of the packaging components used by major UK supermarkets are rated ‘green’ for recyclability under Defra’s Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM), according to new research by packaging sustainability consultancy Aura.
Analysis of more than 400 products from nine leading retailers highlighted the progress that has been made, though Aura warned there are still opportunities to further improve.
The products were selected to reflect a broad cross-section of packaging types, materials, and formats commonly found on shelves. RAM – developed by Defra as part of the UK’s EPR framework – was used since it measures the recyclability of household packaging against the realities of current UK waste infrastructure.
A green score indicates strong alignment with infrastructure capabilities. Given that 10% of packaging was attached to another item and therefore not applicable to RAM scoring, it also leaves 37% of packaging components in the amber or red categories: either only partially recyclable or not recyclable at all.
Gillian Garside-Wight, director of consulting at Aura, said, “EPR is going to affect every supermarket and grocery retailer in the UK and charges could run into the millions of pounds. Those that act now to improve packaging design and recyclability can reduce their future financial liabilities as well as strengthen their sustainability credentials.
“Crucially, RAM scores will be used to determine eco-modulated EPR fees from October 2026, meaning packaging components rated amber or red will attract higher costs. As eco-modulated fees come into force, the financial impact of packaging decisions will become more visible. Retailers must shift their focus from simply managing purchase prices to understanding the total cost of goods, which includes end-of-life fees. Waiting until October 2026 to address these risks is not an option.”
Aura’s audit uncovered a range of opportunities to improve packaging, including inefficient shapes, unnecessary components, and excessive packaging.
70% of audited packaging was deemed appropriate in its design, with no obvious signs of excess or inefficiency. However, the remaining 30% revealed clear opportunities for improvement, ranging from structural optimisation to material simplification.
Gillian Garside-Wight said, “Many decisions on packaging design, particularly for private-label products, are made by the product manufacturers. However, it is the shared responsibility of retailers and product manufacturers to challenge and improve these design choices.
“Recyclability is only part of the picture for sustainability. Excessive packaging is particularly concerning, not only from an environmental standpoint, but also due to its direct impact on EPR fees. As packaging weight increases, so do the associated costs.”
