European EPR Systems: What Drives Success?

Sustainability think tank adelphi recently published a new study comparing the performance of EPR systems across eight European countries. Commissioned by the Dual schemes in Germany, the study identifies substantial differences in how well EPR systems contribute to high-quality recycling and environmental outcomes, despite similar legal frameworks.

While all examined countries have implemented EPR for packaging, the study finds that actual effectiveness varies widely due to:

• differences in governance structures
• cost allocation mechanisms
• transparency requirements
• enforcement practices

Systems in which PROs run operations end-to-end and own material consistently achieve higher yields and better unit costs.

One of the study’s key findings is that competitive systems sharpen efficiency and innovation. Evidence from across the EU shows how competition amplifies performance, and that systems with clear producer responsibility combined with regulated competition improve further through cost pressure and continuous optimisation. Read the full report here>>