Overview

This bill aims to make producers of packaging responsible for its entire lifecycle, from collection and transportation to recycling and disposal. It establishes a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) to oversee compliance and ensure producers cover the costs associated with managing their packaging waste.

Description

Producer Responsibilities

The bill mandates that packaging producers (those who produce and/or sell packaging) are responsible for the collection, transportation, recycling, disposal, treatment, and recovery of their packaging. The Secretary of State will create regulations under the Environment Act 1995 to enforce this.

Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO)

A single PRO will be established to oversee producers' compliance with these responsibilities, report on compliance, and issue certificates to compliant producers. The PRO's remit also includes setting requirements for packaging design (recyclability, materials), labelling, and participation in schemes like deposit return schemes. The Secretary of State will determine the specifics via regulations.

Financial Provisions

The government will fund the initial implementation of this act. Any money received by government departments due to this act will be paid into the Consolidated Fund.

Regulations

The Secretary of State will create regulations to implement the various aspects of the bill. These regulations must be laid before and approved by both Houses of Parliament.

Extent

The bill applies to England and Wales only.

Government Spending

The bill will initially involve government expenditure for its implementation; however, specific figures are not provided within the text.

Groups Affected

• Packaging Producers: Will face increased responsibilities and costs associated with managing their packaging waste. This could necessitate changes in product design and increased costs.
• Consumers: May see changes in packaging design and potentially altered pricing of goods due to increased producer costs.
• Recycling and Waste Management Industry: Could see increased activity and potential new opportunities related to packaging collection and processing.
• The Government: Will incur initial costs for setting up the system and may receive revenue if fees or levies are introduced.
• The Environment: The bill aims to improve recycling rates and reduce packaging waste, resulting in a positive environmental impact.

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