pEPR Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) – impact on your business and how OPRL can help

In December 2024, Defra released the published version of their pEPR Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM). This marks a big step forward in the implementation of pEPR. Producers now have a framework to assess their packaging and understand how it impacts modulated fees.

What Does the RAM Mean for Your Business?

Starting in 2026, eco-modulation gives businesses a financial incentive to reduce packaging waste and prioritise recyclable materials. That’s where the RAM plays a key role.

The RAM provides a standardised process to evaluate the recyclability of packaging materials, assigning a Red, Amber, or Green rating. These ratings will determine the disposal fees for specific types of packaging once eco-modulation starts, with each rating having a different modulated fee.

Red packaging has specifications that make it difficult to recycle at scale
Amber packaging may experience challenges during collection and sortation, requires specialist infrastructure for reprocessing, the efficiency and output quality of reprocessing is affected, or there is some secondary material loss
Green packaging is widely recyclable in the current UK infrastructure

By using the RAM, producers can design more sustainable packaging while lowering their pEPR costs—a win for both the environment and your bottom line.

You can find more details on the RAM on Defra’s website here.

Tools to Simplify the Assessment Process

The Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) is exactly what it sounds like—a guide to help you assess your packaging. However, reviewing and analysing all your packaging types manually using the written methodology can be daunting.

Jude Allan, our Interim Managing Director here at OPRL said: “Right now, brands are navigating a sea of change. Improving recyclability is a crucial way to reduce pEPR costs, but without the right tools or insights, many companies feel stuck.”

That’s why we’ve developed our Recyclability Assessment Tool (RAT), exclusive to OPRL members, to make the process easier.

Our RAT, launched last year, is being updated to align with Defra’s newly published methodology. Once the update is complete, you’ll be able to use the tool to assess your packaging without needing to wade through all the technical documentation.

The RAT considers everything—from packaging type, materials, and size to weight, coatings, and laminations. It evaluates recyclability and gives actionable advice to help you reduce pEPR costs.

As 2026 approaches, tools like the RAM and RAT will become essential for businesses. They’ll help you design smarter, more sustainable packaging, improve recyclability, and manage costs effectively. And with OPRL, you’ll have the support and guidance you need every step of the way.

Impact on labelling

Although mandatory labelling requirements are currently on hold, many OPRL members continue to label their packaging. Why? Because labelling helps consumers understand how to dispose of packaging properly, boosting recycling rates across the UK. More importantly, it’s simply the right thing to do for the planet.

With tools like the RAM and RAT and a focus on labelling, businesses can prepare for the future, improve sustainability, and contribute to a more sustainable planet.

Jude highlights just how pivotal the RAM is: “Clear messaging will be crucial for the success of pEPR. Without consumer engagement, less waste will be collected, which means higher costs for producers. Up until now, OPRL’s labelling metrics were the only independently assessed system available. With the RAM now published, we’re updating our tools and guidelines to align completely with it. Our members will soon benefit from a truly UK-wide system.”

OPRL member exclusive webinar: ‘Ramifications of RAM’

We recently hosted a member exclusive webinar all about the RAM and explaining how we’re updating our tools to align with this.

We know navigating these changes can feel overwhelming so we recommend watching the recording, or reviewing the slides. We also cover a lot of the questions that our members submitted in advance.

You can find the recording and the slides within the webinar event page here.