Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has officially come into force in the UK, and for many businesses, it’s not exactly cause for celebration.
Under EPR, companies are now legally and financially accountable for the packaging they put into the world, from creation to disposal. The goal is clear: reduce waste, increase recycling, and make producers part of the solution to our packaging crisis.
But here’s the reality for many business owners:
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Endless paperwork
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Increased costs
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Stricter reporting deadlines
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A looming risk to brand reputation if you fail to comply
It’s enough to make sustainability feel like a burden rather than an opportunity.
The Problem With Compliance Only Thinking
Too often, businesses approach EPR like a tax to be paid or a box to tick. They meet the bare minimum requirements and move on.
But that mindset misses a huge opportunity.
EPR isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about proving your brand stands for something more. Consumers care about the impact of the products they buy, and increasingly, they’re choosing brands that care too.
How Upcycling Turns EPR Into a Win
At SmoothEdge, we believe upcycling is the solution. We transform them into beautiful, functional glassware.
Here’s why that matters:
Tangible Sustainability
Anyone can say they recycle. But when your customers drink from a glass that used to be one of your bottles, they see and feel your brand and story.
Reduced Packaging Impact
By giving bottles a second life, you’re cutting down on waste disposal and helping to close the loop in the circular economy, exactly what EPR was designed to encourage.
A Marketing Story Worth Sharing
Upcycling turns an obligation into a talking point. It’s proof that your brand doesn’t just follow the rules, it leads by example.
♻️ SmoothEdge – Turning your waste into your strongest asset.
📩 Want to learn how we can help your business meet EPR obligations and boost your brand? Get in touch today.