UK-wide consultation on proposals for reform to the PRN system

A PRN is a document certifying that the packaging waste of a product has been recycled properly. Producers can purchase certificates to demonstrate their commitment and progress towards meeting their recycling obligations.

The government has set out several measures it intends to implement including:

• Creating a Fraud Detection Initiative to identify and implement measures to minimise fraud in the PRN system

• Working with the sector to review the collation and distribution of combined system level data

• Improving compliance and fraud co-operation across the four regulators to maintain consistency and prevent fraudsters obtaining accreditation in other jurisdictions

Subject to consultation, the government also proposes the following:

• Provision of further guidance on the application of the Regulations to ensure that all accredited operators are issuing evidence based on the recyclable packaging content after sorting and cleaning has taken place

• A time limit on the use of national protocols and Agency Agreed Industry Grades

• Introduction of an Exceptional Mechanism for Compliance to provide a legal basis for compliance schemes

• Enhancement of data transparency to facilitate compliance schemes and encourage registrants to conduct more due diligence