EPR systems in Europe

On 24 October, sustainability think tank, adelphi, published a new study comparing the performance of extended producer responsibility (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, and
• enforcement practices

Systems in which producer responsibility organisations (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.

Systems in countries such as Germany, the Netherlands and Austria score relatively well on parameters like compliance control and operational transparency.

In contrast, weaker systems are characterised by a lack of independent oversight or provide limited incentives for eco-design and recyclability.

Importantly, the authors stress that successful EPR implementation depends not only on regulations, but also on how responsibilities are distributed among producers, authorities, and waste management actors.

Effective monitoring, adequate financial resources, and clearly defined roles are essential to ensure that EPR achieves its environmental goals.

The study provides concrete policy recommendations to improve EPR systems across the EU, including:

• better harmonisation of reporting standards
• stronger oversight of PROs, and
• clearer incentives for sustainable packaging design

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