Environmental FAQ

Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations

What is the legal status of the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) Standards?

They have been adopted as ‘harmonised standards’ by the national standardisation bodies in EU Member States. They are purely voluntary measures - however the UK believes that use of the full set of standards is an appropriate way for businesses to demonstrate compliance. Businesses are free to seek alternative ways to satisfy the enforcement authorities that they are complying with the Essential Requirements.

How long must I keep documented evidence of my compliance?

Documented evidence must be kept for 4 years from the date that the packaging was placed on the market.

My company only manufactures a small amount of packaging, do the regulations still apply?

The Essential Requirements Regulations apply regardless of company turnover or the quantity of packaging that is manufactured.