This project evaluates the impact of Covid-19 and lockdown restrictions on the UK packaging recycling compliance system, projecting outcomes through to 2022. It considers how shifts in consumption, recycling participation, and business activity influence packaging placed on the market (POM) and compliance against recycling targets.
Findings show the greatest challenges in plastics and glass, where reduced POM created shortfalls in PRN evidence, though increased household recycling participation helped offset impacts. Aluminium and steel remained broadly aligned with targets, while wood and paper/card surpluses are expected to decline. The study also highlights how business de-registrations may temporarily ease compliance pressures during recessionary periods.
Valpak’s Plastic PackFlow 2025 Methodology Review strengthens the methodologies used to estimate UK plastic packaging placed on the market, introducing updated 2024 baseline data, improved robustness assessments, and evidence to support packaging policy, regulatory development, and informed industry decision-making.
Read MoreValpak partnered with Zero Waste Scotland to deliver the Textiles Flow Into and Within Scotland research, offering a clearer picture of national textile flows and future policy considerations. Download the full reports and explore how strong data supports effective stewardship.
Read MoreCommissioned by WRAP and delivered by Valpak Consulting with expert support, this report reviews the quantity of wood packaging placed on the UK market (POM) and recycled in 2014. It also projects future POM figures and recycling rates through to 2020.
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