Beyondly’s Emma Wilkinson named PSF chair

Ms Wilkinson started her tenure today (20 July), after Mr Trigg-Knight stepped down at the end of his two-year fixed term.

The Packaging Scheme Forum was set up in 2019 by 45 compliance schemes, with chairs holding a maximum term of two years, with at a least a year’s gap before seeking re-election, to encourage rotation. Ecosurety’s Robbie Staniforth was the inaugural chair.

In a statement, Ms Wilkinson welcomed the appointment and said she can’t wait to take the role at such a pivotal time for the industry.

She said: “Taking on the role of chair of the Packaging Scheme Forum really is a privilege, and I am excited to lead this collective effort between compliance schemes to improve packaging regulation and enforcement in the UK. By fostering collaboration and engaging key stakeholders, we will work together to lead the transition to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging compliance, ensuring that navigating the changing regulatory landscape is a combined approach and as easy as possible for all.

“I am committed to effective collaboration between compliance schemes and key stakeholders. Driving positive change towards a circular economy is key, and I’m passionate about making progress by contributing to the development of compliance systems that work for producers, schemes and ultimately the planet.”

Industry

The PSF represents a significant portion of the industry, with its members collectively representing 97% of producers registered under the Packaging Regulations in the UK. These members encompass a wide range of sectors, including automotive, chemical manufacturing, engineering, food and drink manufacturing, apparel, sports and leisure, medical, and retail.

As compliance schemes, the PSF members advise their producer members on the recycling obligations mandated by UK law, and fulfil these obligations by providing evidence of recycling, and validating packaging data submissions. Together, the PSF members are responsible for managing 7 million tonnes of recycling and packaging waste annually, and increasingly perform wider consultancy and advisory services for their members.

I am immensely proud of the work we have undertaken at such a pivotal time for the industry

• Martin Trigg-Knight, Clarity Environmental

Reflection

Mr Trigg-Knight said he is pleased with the work the PSF has undertaken during his time as chair and wished his replacement the best of luck.

“Reflecting on my two-year tenure as chair of the Packaging Scheme Forum, I am immensely proud of the work we have undertaken at such a pivotal time for the industry. It has been a privilege to work alongside industry leaders, regulatory authorities, and stakeholders who are passionate about creating a greener future. Together, we have laid a solid foundation for advancing sustainable packaging solutions and raising awareness about the importance of environmental responsibility.

“As I step down from my position, I would like to express my gratitude to all those who have supported and collaborated with me during my tenure. The journey has been both challenging and rewarding, and I am confident that the Forum will continue to thrive and help shape policies that promote a circular economy in the UK. From this point on, I will continue representing the industry and producers, both inside and outside the PSF, to support and develop the market as a whole, whilst continuing to support our valued members as they negotiate the rapidly changing compliance landscape.”