The British Plastics Federation (BPF) is calling on manufacturers and businesses in the plastics sector to report any instances of false claims related to recycled content in plastic packaging. This move aims to protect legitimate players in the market and uphold the credibility of the UK’s Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), introduced in 2022 to encourage the use of recycled materials.
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Mounting Concerns Over Compliance
The BPF expressed rising concern that a small number of firms are exaggerating or fabricating recycled content figures to bypass the PPT, which currently charges £ 217.85 per tonne for packaging that falls short of the 30 % recycled content threshold. According to recent government figures, around 46 % of plastic packaging placed on the market met or exceeded this threshold in 2023/24—an improvement from 40 % the year prior.
However, the BPF warns that without stricter enforcement, the effectiveness of the tax—and public confidence in recycled plastics—could be undermined.
The Impact of Misrepresentation
Falsifying recycled content doesn’t just hurt government revenue; it threatens the viability of legitimate companies that invest in sustainability and compliance. The BPF warns that these deceptive practices could distort competition and tarnish the reputation of recycled plastics, making it harder for honest businesses to thrive in a market striving toward circularity.
Call for Stronger Enforcement and Reporting
To address the issue, the BPF is encouraging companies to report suspected fraud to the Environment Agency. They argue that greater transparency and accountability will help bring the issue to the forefront of political and regulatory agendas. The trade body also supports the introduction of an independent verification or certification scheme to confirm the recycled content of plastic packaging—ideally at a national or international level.
Wider Industry Pressure for Reform
The BPF’s stance aligns with that of other organizations like RECOUP and the Environmental Services Association (ESA). RECOUP has previously warned that weak enforcement is allowing imported packaging to dodge scrutiny, potentially leading to a breakdown in the UK’s recycling progress.
These groups agree that more robust regulations, clearer guidelines, and a commitment to fraud prevention are vital for the long-term health of the recycling sector.
Conclusion
As the UK pushes for a more sustainable future, trust in recycled materials is key. The BPF’s call to action reveals the need for vigilance, cooperation, and systemic improvements. Reporting fraud, improving oversight, and adopting standard verification systems are critical steps to ensure that plastic packaging reform delivers real environmental benefits.
You can view British Plastics Federation’s Official Statement here.
