OPRL said that it hopes the interactive tool will help brands “make informed choices” around packaging design and reduce financial obligations under the new legislation.
OPRL already has a labelling tool available to members which helps to determine the correct recycling label and provides print-ready artwork.
The new Recyclability Assessment Tool builds on this by analysing a greater range of data, including the size and weight of components, packaging type, materials and laminations or coatings.
The resulting recyclability assessment can be saved in the tool or downloaded for future reference.
The tool is available for brands whose packaging is collected by more than 75% of local authorities to be sorted and reprocessed to end markets.
Alice Harlock, director of technical and member services at OPRL, called the digital platform “an important stage” in the road to pEPR and increasing recyclability.
She added: “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 Methodology (RAM).
“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.”
The 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.
The committee ensures that OPRL’s information and tools are evidence-based and up to date.
OPRL consulted the following organisations in developing the new tool:
- Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment UK (ACE UK)
- Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation (Alupro)
- British Glass
- Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI)
- Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN)
- Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee (LARAC)
- Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association
- Recycling of Used Plastics Ltd (RECOUP)
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