The Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations were introduced in 1998 and apply to all manufacturers, importers and brand owners of packaging. Businesses are required to ensure that:
- the minimum amount of packaging is used
- noxious or hazardous substances in packaging are minimised
- the packaging can be recovered through at least one of the following ways:
- recycling
- incineration with energy recovery
- composting and biodegradation
There are also heavy metals limits which apply to cadmium, mercury, lead and hexavalent chromium.
The Essential Requirements Regulations are policed by Local Authority Trading Standards Departments.
Trading Standards Business Guidance Leaflet
View the Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations
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