Defra publishes guidance on registration and accreditation requirements for packaging waste reprocessors and exporters
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has published guidance on new mandatory registration and voluntary accreditation requirements for packaging waste reprocessors and exporters under the extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging scheme. From September 2025, registration will be mandatory, with applications due by 1 October 2025 for the compliance period starting on 1 January 2026. While accreditation remains voluntary, reprocessors and exporters must apply if they wish to be eligible to issue packaging recycling notes (PRNs) or packaging export recycling notes (PERNs). The guidance also clarifies that applications for 2026 registration or accreditation cannot be submitted through the National Packaging Waste Database (NPWD). Further details on accessing the NPWD for past reprocessing or exporting data, as well as information on the 2026 application process, will be released in due course. Additionally, the guidance sets out updated fee structures.