UK Packaging PRO: The future of RAM and engaging stakeholder feedback
On 23 March 2026, UK Packaging PRO was appointed as the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) to work alongside PackUK in delivering the UK’s packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) scheme.
Since then, they have been working quietly in the background to lay the foundations for the PRO to take over responsibility of certain tasks, with oversight from PackUK. These include communications and engagement, along with the development of the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) and modulated fees.
Now, on 22 October 2026, after many long months of work, 'A new approach to RAM updates' has been published – providing producers with clearer routes for engagement and greater visibility on how evidence is assessed and future updates are identified and prioritised.
Why is the RAM process changing?
The RAM outlines how producers should assess their packaging for recyclability against the UK’s current collections, sortation, and recycling infrastructure.
First published in 2024 for producers to assess their 2025 and 2026 packaging data, July 2026 saw the first major revision with the publication of RAM 2027 (for producers’ 2027 packaging data).
There has been a lot of stakeholder input in these documents, including the RAM Technical Advisory Committee, put together by PackUK. But unfortunately, due to the complexity around the sortation and recyclability of different packaging materials and formats, catching every single issue is nigh on impossible.
Now PackUK have delegated elements of the RAM update process to the PRO, a new approach has been decided upon, giving producers greater transparency and more opportunities to help shape the future of the RAM.
What’s changing?
Under this new system, open until 31 December 2026, the PRO is inviting producers and stakeholders across the packaging value chain to submit evidence, which will be reviewed to assess whether there is a case for change.
The PRO will then review submissions, passing on those with a strong case for change to relevant exports from across the packaging and recycling sectors. This will help develop recommendations for PackUK to use in future iterations of the RAM, and solidifies the aim of prioritising evidence-led improvements to make sure the RAM mirrors the UK’s current recycling infrastructure capabilities.
What does this mean for RAM 2028?
As this is a new way of gathering and assessing evidence, RAM 2028 is being deemed a ‘transition year’ as the process is developed and refined.
In practice, this means changes will focus on a smaller number of areas already highlighted by producers, rather than complete overhaul annually. This will give producers greater stability and more time to prepare for upcoming changes.
Other considerations
While this seems all well and good in theory, it will be interesting to see how this works in practice, with my main thoughts being:
For stakeholders wanting to get involved, what counts as sufficient evidence?
Is the PRO ready for an influx of submissions that contain only wishful thinking that isn’t backed up?
How are priorities chosen? Will the loud voice of lobbying groups get priority over genuine environmental and recycling improvements?
Balance participation: How will smaller stakeholders with fewer resources be able to contribute?
As the PRO is the voice and representative of producers, who makes the final decisions for amendments to the RAM, and what happens when there is disagreement or conflicts of interest between producers, government and technical advisors?
How will success be measured, year on year?
My final thought here is how urgent issues will be raised in this new system?
In their announcement, the PRO stated that they are currently working, alongside PackUK, on a review of the existing guidance around PFAS and direct printing on polypropylene (PP).
Does this mean that we are expecting changes and amendments to RAM 2027 before the year is out?
If so, what time will producers have to be able to adapt to the changes and produce relevant evidence?
And if not, how are the voices of disgruntled producers going to be calmed over the coming year?
Final takeaway
It is encouraging to see that the PRO being harnesses for the purpose it is intended; to rally the voice of stakeholders, to gather actual evidence for the betterment of pEPR scheme.
And I’d encourage those that are wanting to get involved to assess whether their evidence is sufficient, and the benefits of joining together with other voices in trade associations or industry bodies to amplify issues.
Beyondly is committed to keeping our customers informed on key regulatory updates, providing clarity on what these developments mean for their obligations and costs and helping them navigate the evolving requirements with confidence.
Explore our Policy News hub for the latest legislation updates, or get in touch with our friendly team at [email protected] or 01756 794951 to discuss how Beyondly can support your environmental compliance needs.
