pEPR Guidance Updates Published For Reprocessors and Exporters On Applying for Registration and Accreditation

Defra has published two new pieces of guidance relating to Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) for packaging, covering reprocessor/exporter registration and accreditation, and sampling and inspection plans.

The first update provides detailed instructions for organisations applying to become accredited reprocessors or exporters of packaging waste under EPR. It outlines how to apply via the online RPD (Report Packaging Data) portal, including the requirements for submitting evidence of recycling and reprocessing.

Accreditation is required for organisations wishing to issue Packaging Waste Recycling Notes (PRNs) or Packaging Waste Export Recycling Notes (PERNs), which are used to demonstrate compliance with recycling obligations under the existing Producer Responsibility regime.

The guidance also clarifies the expected documentation, eligibility criteria, and conditions of accreditation. Accredited operators will be subject to inspections by environmental regulators and must provide supporting records for any packaging waste they process or export. The application window is now open for the 2025 compliance year.

In addition, and in conjunction with the Environment Agency, updated templates and instructions have been published for submitting sampling and inspection plans – a requirement under EPR for accredited reprocessors and exporters.

These plans set out how waste packaging will be sampled, analysed and categorised to ensure accurate reporting of packaging material types.

Two template options are provided: one for operators who carry out their own sampling, and another for those who contract this work to a third party. Each template must be submitted alongside the accreditation application and is designed to ensure consistency and traceability in how waste packaging is assessed.

Defra has stated that the information provided in sampling and inspection plans will be essential in supporting the evidence base for PRNs and PERNs issued under EPR, and will help ensure the accuracy of recycling data across the system.

To access the guidance on applying for registration and accreditation as a reprocessor or exporter, click here.

To access the guidance on templates for sampling and inspection plans when applying for accreditation, click here.