DEFRA has shared the draft Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) guidance and opened a short consultation for feedback.
As part of the introduction of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging, the RAM will help to determine packaging recyclability. It will guide producers towards more recyclable design choices, or they will be subject to higher fees.
The full draft RAM guidance can be seen by clicking HERE.
The methodology categorises packaging as either green, amber or red, depending on its composition and specifications and how this relates to infrastructure for collection, sortation, reprocessing and application. Modulated fees are then applied, and these vary according to the recyclability and environmental impact of the packaging. ‘Red’ packaging is less compatible with recycling infrastructure, and will attract higher modulated fees, amber will be subject to lower fees, and green will attract the lowest fees. A decision tree is included in the guidance.
Currently, packaging placed on the market in 2025 is due to be modulated via the RAM with fees attributed after April 2026.
The requirement of when producers will be required to input their packaging formats is unclear, and several sections within the guidance are currently blank and waiting on the final Statutory Agreement (SI) to be agreed.
A number of considerations relating to collections within this guidance have used data from WRAP’s LA Portal. LARAC strongly encourages members to check and update the data they have submitted to this platform to ensure that DEFRA are using the most accurate and up-to-date collection data for the RAM, as well as for informing and developing other areas of the wider Collection and Packaging Reforms (CPR), going forward.
This consultation is the first of two opportunities to provide feedback on the working version of the RAM, with a second opportunity to be publicised in DEFRA’s EPR email newsletter. This consultation closes on 31 October 2024, and the questions and how to respond can be found here.
Any specific questions relating to the RAM can be sent to DEFRA directly at: RAM-EPR@defra.gov.uk.
LARAC will not be responding to this consultation, as it is not directly relevant to local authorities.
