The government's 'Simpler Recycling' reforms will be rolled out from 31 March 2025, changing how organisations should deal with food and other waste streams.

Some of the UK’s leading packaging companies have launched the Alliance for Fibre-Based Packaging to advocate for their sector as new business waste regulations and Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) take effect.

Founding members, such as Huhtamaki, Seda, Benders Paper Cups, Colpac, Sonoco and ProAmpac, aim to ensure a level playing field between packaging materials under the new policies. Instinctif Partners and Dram Communications will serve as the alliance's secretariat.

Neil Whittall, head of sustainability at Huhtamaki and co-chair of the alliance, emphasised the importance of improving fibre-based packaging collection and recycling. "As fibre-based packaging options become more common as a renewably sourced and low carbon alternative to fossil-based products, it is essential that as much fibre-based packaging material as possible is collected, sorted and recycled.

"Our businesses are committed to working closely with the UK Government and stakeholders to ensure that the detailed implementation of waste and recycling policies supports this outcome."

pEPR introduces full net cost recovery for producers, requiring them to cover household packaging waste costs. However, key proposals, including mandatory take-back of cups and on-the-go bin payments, have been dropped.

Paul Sanderson, CEO at The Recycling Association, welcomed the alliance's role in ensuring fibre-based packaging remains recyclable and fit for purpose. "I look forward to developing a partnership with the Alliance for Fibre-Based Packaging to ensure that fibre and fibre-based packaging is designed to be recyclable while also protecting the product within it.

"Working across the value chain is essential as we look to develop the circular economy, and the Alliance will be a vital part of that."