EPR - FAQ

What is EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility)?

EPR is a legal obligation that holds producers responsible for the full lifecycle management of certain products, such as packaging, electronics (WEEE), batteries, and more, including when the products become end-of-life. This includes, among other things, registration, reporting, and paying environmental fees in the countries where you place your products on the market.

Do I need to register for EPR obligations separately in each European country?

Yes, EPR obligations are regulated at the national level. If your organization sells products in multiple European countries, you will often need to register separately with the competent authority in each country. The requirements, deadlines, and processes vary from one country to another.

What is the difference between PPWR and packaging reporting?

The PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations) will replace the current Packaging Directive. The PPWR sets high standards on recyclability and the use of recycled content. Therefore, it is expected that that the information needed for the packaging reporting under the PPWR will need more details then under the current Directive.

Pincvision supports both, tailored to the countries in which you operate. Read everything about PPWR here.

What are the consequences of non-compliance with EPR regulations?

Non-compliance with EPR regulations can lead to several serious consequences. These include high fines, sanctions, or even sales bans in certain countries. Additionally, authorities may list your company as non-compliant on public registers, which can cause reputational damage. Complying with EPR obligations is therefore essential to mitigate legal risks, maintain market access, and support sustainability goals.

What is the relation between the EPR obligations and data?

To meet EPR obligations, registered producers must submit reports. While this may sound simple, it requires a substantial amount of data to report the correct quantities and products in line with the legislation. Everything placed on the market must be properly documented, including shipment and product details.
Beyond reporting, there are other obligations that also require data, such as forecasts.

What is the relevance of complete data in relation to EPR compliance?

Complete data is needed to perform the reports and obligations of the legislation correctly in the countries where you sell products into. With incomplete or incorrect data, you are likely to over- or under report which can lead to issues like corrections in later declaration periods or in case of an audit.

If I am registered with an authority, does that mean I'm fully EPR compliant?

Some countries allow producers to only register and report with an authority, mostly for electronic equipment. The producer is seen as “individual compliant”. In case the producer opts for “individual compliance” he has to arrange the collection and recycling of the end-of-life products itself. In practice this option is only chosen by large producers with non-household products.

How often do we need to report, and what are the EPR reporting deadlines?

EPR reporting deadlines and frequencies differ per country and product category, such as packaging, batteries, or electronics. With so many variations, it’s easy to lose track. Pincvision helps you map your EPR obligations for each country, set up clear reporting calendars, and submit reports on time and with the right data. This keeps you compliant and ensures no deadline is ever missed.