PackUK’s RAM 2027 packaging recycling ratings set UK EPR fees from January

UK – PackUK has published the Recyclability Assessment Methodology 2027, requiring UK producers to classify household packaging as red, amber or green from January 2027, with the ratings directly influencing modulated Extended Producer Responsibility fees.

The updated methodology, released on 1 July 2026, builds on RAM version 1.1 and responds to extensive industry consultation with a focus on improving clarity, consistency and accessibility. 

RAM 2027 applies only to packaging placed on the UK market between 1 January and 31 December 2027, with producers continuing to use RAM 1.1 for 2025 and 2026 reporting periods. 

Large producers are legally required to assess household packaging recyclability and submit results alongside their packaging data to environmental regulators.

Four-Stage Framework Determines Packaging Recyclability Ratings and Fee Multipliers

RAM 2027 reviews packaging items and components across eight material categories through four main stages: collection, sortation, reprocessing and application. 

Where producers want to state packaging is “recycled at scale,” they must provide evidence that it moves through those stages using existing and established infrastructure rather than pilot or experimental systems. 

A green rating applies where packaging is broadly recyclable within current UK infrastructure, amber where collection, sorting or reprocessing limitations reduce efficiency, and red where packaging cannot move dependably through the system or lacks an established end market. 

Some packaging formats receive an automatic red rating based on UK regulations, recognised risk frameworks and evidence of effects on recycling systems, even if technically recyclable. 

Red-rated materials attract a 1.2x fee multiplier in 2026/27, rising to 1.6x in 2027/28 and 2.0x by 2028/29, while green-rated packaging pays less.

Annual Methodology Updates and PRO Role Shape Future UK Recycling Compliance

The methodology includes specific provisions for multi-component packaging, components that consumers can separate by hand are assessed individually, while inseparable packaging is assessed as a single unit. 

Attached labels that cannot be easily removed are assessed with the predominant material they are attached to. 

Producers with packaging that remains unassessed receive an automatic red classification, with penalties escalating to double the base fee by 2028/29. PackUK intends to revise the methodology annually, with RAM 2027 being the first update under the new annual update cycle set out in the RAM Roadmap. 

The recently appointed Producer Responsibility Organisation, UK Packaging PRO, will play a significant role in shaping the ongoing development of the RAM and further guidance for producers. 

RAM 2027 covers the 1 January–31 December 2027 reporting period, with submission deadlines of 1 October 2027 for the first half and 1 April 2028 for the second half.

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