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This guidance explainsÌýthe:Ìý

• steps you must follow to assessÌýrecyclability ofÌýitems ofÌýpackagingÌýand components you supplyÌýÌý

• red,Ìýamber, greenÌýassessment criteria for each packaging materialÌýfor the 2027 reporting yearÌý(1 January to 31 December 2027)Ìý

• evidence you need toÌýretainÌýand how to report yourÌýrecyclability assessmentÌýmethodologyÌý(RAM)Ìý»å²¹³Ù²¹Ìý

YouÌýshould read this alongsideÌýtheÌýRAMÌý´Ç±¹±ð°ù±¹¾±±ð·É.ÌýÌý

StepÌý1: check automatic red packagingÌý

You mustÌýrate your packaging asÌýred automaticallyÌýif any of the following apply: Ìý

• there are integrated electrical components that would be classed asÌýelectrical andÌýelectronicÌýequipment (EEE) or batteries and accumulators – for example, boxes that includeÌýlightÌýemittingÌýdiodeÌý(LED)Ìý±ô¾±²µ³ó³Ù²õ Ìý
• there are substances of concern in packaging or components that exceed limits underÌý,  (³§³Õ±á°ä²õ), persistent organic pollutants (POPs), ,   (CLP)Ìý
• inks are used that are not manufactured in compliance with theÌýEuropean Printing Ink AssociationÌý
• an item or component contains more than 1Ìýparts per million (ppm)Ìýof total perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) (individual or sum), orÌýPFAS in food packaging exceeding 25Ìýparts per billion (ppb) for any individual or total  PFASÌý
• food contact packaging that does not comply with applicable  (including restrictions on substances that may migrate into food)Ìý
• packaging formats subject to UK regulatory restrictions or phase-outs, including certain single-use plastic packaging formats that are restricted due to their environmental impact, even where technically recyclable  Ìý

You do not need to carry out any further assessment on this packaging.Ìý

Step 2:ÌýassessÌýmaterial categoryÌý(classification)Ìý

You must report yourÌýpackaging under theÌýcorrectÌýmaterial category.Ìý

The material category you report under depends on whether you assess your packaging as:Ìý

• separate componentsÌý

• aÌýwhole packagingÌýitemÌýformedÌýofÌýintegratedÌýcomponentsÌý(an itemÌýofÌýpackaging)Ìý

You must have evidence thatÌýpackagingÌýmeetsÌýthe definition of the materialÌýyou’reÌýreporting under.Ìý

Material categoriesÌýare:Ìý

• paper or boardÌý
• fibre-based composite (FBC)Ìýmaterials–liquidÌýcartonsÌýand non-liquidÌýcartonsÌý
• plasticÌý– flexibles and rigidsÌý
• steelÌýÌý
• aluminiumÌý
• glassÌý
• woodÌý
• otherÌýmaterialsÌý

SeparateÌýcomponentsÌý

You must assess and reportÌýthe material ofÌýeach component separatelyÌýifÌýit:  Ìý

• isÌýdistinct from the main body of the packaging item–for example, the plasticÌýblister in a multipack of batteries is distinct from the cardboard backingÌý

• needsÌýto beÌýseparatedÌýfromÌýan itemÌýof packagingÌýto use theÌýproduct, and cannot be reassembled–forÌýexample, a tear off strip or wine bottleÌýcork Ìý

Whole packaging item formed of integrated components (an itemÌýof packaging)Ìý

You must assessÌýand rateÌýanÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýasÌý³Ù³ó±ð greatest (predominant)Ìýmaterial by weight if: Ìý

• assembledÌýcomponents of differentÌýmaterialsÌýthat make upÌýanÌýitem ofÌýpackagingÌýcannotÌýbeÌýseparated – for example,ÌýanÌýaerosolÌýcanÌýthat isÌýonlyÌýseparable by mechanical sortation or by usingÌýtools  Ìý

• components are not intended to be removed fromÌýanÌýitem ofÌýpackaging – for example,ÌýaÌýlabel applied to packaging withÌýadhesive thatÌýremainsÌýattached throughout the sortation processÌýÌý

• a component isÌýsmaller thanÌý40mmÌýinÌýat leastÌý2Ìýdimensions,Ìýbut can be re-attached to theÌýitem ofÌýpackaging – for example, a bottle cap or lid that can be reattachedÌýtoÌýtheÌýbottleÌý

Step 3: assess recyclability Ìý

You must assess recyclability ofÌýitemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýunder each relevant material,Ìýat each stage of recyclability:Ìý

• collectionÌý

• sortationÌý

• reprocessingÌý

• applicationÌý

ItemsÌýofÌýpackagingÌýandÌýcomponentsÌýmust be:Ìý

• assessed as green at each stage to receive a final green ratingÌý

• assessed as green or amber at each stage to receive a finalÌýamberÌýratingÌý

• reported as red if they areÌýassessed as red at any stageÌý– you do not need to carry out any further assessmentÌý

• reportedÌýas redÌýif you do not have evidence that theÌýpackaging meets either an amber or green rating – contact yourÌýsupplierÌýifÌýyouÌýare missing technical details or evidence that you need to complete your assessment Ìý

Take-back schemesÌý

Take-back schemes can be used for materials that areÌýnot collectedÌýat kerbside (commonly collected or limited collection).ÌýIf you use a take-back scheme to collect your packaging, you must have evidence thatÌýthe scheme is able to process the packaging material at eachÌýrecycling stage.Ìý

Packaging recycled using aÌýtake-back schemeÌýcan only be rated amber if you have evidence of processing at each stage, otherwise it is red.Ìý

If you use a take-back scheme, you do not need to follow the materials assessment guidanceÌýon this page.ÌýYou should readÌýtake-backÌýinformationÌýto understand scheme criteria and evidence requirements.

PaperÌýorÌýboardÌý

Examples of paper or board include:Ìý

• cardboard boxes and sleevesÌý

• corrugated cardboard – for example, shipping packagingÌý

• paperboard – for example,Ìýcereal boxes and tissue boxesÌý

• flexible paper packaging – for example,Ìýwrappers and pouchesÌý

• moulded fibre – for example,Ìýegg boxesÌý

Assess paper contentÌý

You mustÌýcalculateÌýthe total paper content of your packagingÌýto accurately assess it at each stage of recyclability.ÌýÌý

Paper contentÌý(weight %)Ìýcan beÌýdeterminedÌýbyÌýdividingÌýthe totalÌýmass (in grams per square metreÌý(gsm)) of the non-separable elements defined as paper content byÌýtheÌýtotalÌýmassÌýof the itemÌýorÌýcomponentÌý( in gsm).Ìý

Non-separableÌýelementsÌýdefined as paper content are:Ìý

• fibre – wood-based cellulose fibresÌý
• filler –Ìýminerals typically used in the industry,Ìýsuch asÌýCaCO3 (calcium carbonate) or kaolinÌý
• additive – chemicals used for the paper making process,ÌýsuchÌýasÌýsizing agents, dry or wet strength agents, retention aids, defoamers, dyes, and pigmentsÌý
• colour coatingÌý– mineralised coating layers used to enhance the brightness and printability of the paperÌý
• waterÌý

If theÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýorÌýcomponentÌýuses alternatives to cellulosic wood derivedÌýfibres,Ìýyou must provide evidence that they:Ìý

• areÌýappropriate forÌýuse in papermakingÌýÌý
• can be reprocessed without causing challenges in the processes or affecting other packaging waste materialsÌý

Stage 1: paper or board collectionÌý

GreenÌýÌý

PaperÌýorÌýboardÌýpackagingÌýisÌýcollected at the kerbside byÌýat leastÌý75%ÌýofÌýlocal authorities in the UKÌý(commonlyÌýcollected)ÌýandÌýcan be rated greenÌýunless itÌýis listed asÌýredÌýat this stage.Ìý

Check packaging that isÌýcommonly collected for 2027Ìýand previous reporting years.Ìý

AmberÌýÌý

AssessÌýpaper or board packagingÌýthat is not commonly collectedÌýas amber if youÌýcanÌýmeetÌýtake-back scheme evidenceÌýrequirements.Ìý

RedÌýÌý

AssessÌýa packagingÌýitem or componentÌýas red if it is:Ìý

• paperÌýor boardÌýwith glitter adhered toÌýitÌý
• padded polyethylene (PE)Ìýlined envelopes  Ìý
• greaseproof, siliconised, or  waxed  paper  or  board –Ìýpackaging  that  uses  fibre densificationÌýsuch asÌýgreaseproof paper,Ìýor a continuous surface treatment such as a wax or silicone coating layerÌýapplied to the paper or boardÌý(wax dispersionÌýcoatings and silicone inÌýlinerlessÌýlabelsÌýare exempt) Ìý

Stage 2: paper or board sortationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess yourÌýitem of packaging or componentÌýasÌýgreen if itÌýisÌýat least 40mm in at least 2 dimensions.Ìý

RedÌý

Assess yourÌýitemÌýof packaging orÌýcomponentÌýas red ifÌýitÌýdoesÌýnot meet the 40mm size threshold and cannot be reattached to theÌýmainÌýbody of theÌýpackaging item.Ìý

Stage 3: paper or board reprocessingÌý

GreenÌý

Assess yourÌýitemÌýof packaging or componentÌýas greenÌýat this stageÌýif it does not contain any contaminants listed asÌýamber orÌýred.Ìý

AmberÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýor componentÌýas amber if itÌýcontains non-paper content greater than  10% by weight.Ìý

You must assess paper labelsÌýthat contain silicone used as a release coatingÌý(for example,ÌýinÌýlinerless labels)Ìýas amber if the silicone content of the total labelÌýis greater than 0.3% by weight.Ìý

RedÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitemÌýofÌýpackagingÌýorÌýcomponent as red if it:Ìý

• contains non-paper content greater than 15% by weightÌýÌý

• contains urea-formaldehyde Ìý

• contains urea-melamine Ìý

• contains glass or carbon fibres Ìý

• is designed for food to be heated within it – thisÌýis because it is likely toÌýbe contaminated when disposed ofÌý

Stage 4: paper or board applicationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess your itemÌýofÌýpackagingÌýorÌýcomponent as greenÌýat this stageÌýif it does not contain contaminants listed as amberÌýor red.Ìý

AmberÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitem of packaging or component as amber if it contains any of the following:Ìý

• non wood-based fibres such as bagasse, palm,Ìýrice straw, wheat straw, barley straw, oat straw, grass straw, flax, hemp, and bamboo Ìý

• adhesive lamination (inside of pack)Ìýof polyethyleneÌýterephthalate (PET), metallised PET, or PET-PEÌý

• wax dispersion, including microcrystalline waxes (this does not apply to waxes used in printingÌýinks) Ìý

RedÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitem of packaging or component asÌýredÌýif it contains any of the following:Ìý

• polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymer dispersion coatingsÌý

• lamination with aluminium foil where the coating thickness is greater than or equal to 6 micronsÌý(µm) Ìý

Fibre-based compositeÌýmaterialsÌý(liquid cartons)Ìý

FBC liquid cartons are made of fibre with thin layers of plastic, aluminium or both, designed to safely hold liquids.Ìý

Examples ofÌýFBCÌýliquid cartons include:Ìý

• milk,ÌýjuiceÌýorÌýsoup cartonsÌý

• plant‑basedÌýdrinkÌýcartons – for example,Ìýcartons ofÌýoatÌýorÌýalmond milkÌý

• soaps or detergentsÌý

If the liquid carton has a lid attached to it made of a different material (for example, plastic) this should be assessed as part of the FBC liquid carton.Ìý

Stage 1: FBC (liquid cartons) collectionÌý

AmberÌý

FBCÌýliquid cartonsÌýare collectedÌýatÌýkerbsideÌýbyÌý50 to 75% of local authoritiesÌýacross the UKÌý(limited collection)ÌýandÌýareÌýtherefore rated amber atÌýthisÌýstage.Ìý

Stage 2: FBC (liquid cartons) sortationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess yourÌýitem of packaging or componentÌýasÌýgreen if it isÌýat least 40mm in at least 2 dimensions.Ìý

RedÌý

Assess yourÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýorÌýcomponentÌýas red if itÌýdoesÌýnot meet the 40mm size threshold, including undersized components that cannot be reattached to the mainÌýbody of theÌýpackaging item.Ìý

AssessÌýyourÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýorÌýcomponentÌýas red ifÌýitÌýhasÌýan outer layerÌýmade of anythingÌýother than  PE or paper.Ìý

Stage 3: FBC (liquid cartons) reprocessingÌý

AmberÌý

FBCÌýliquid cartonsÌýare technically recyclable butÌýcannot be reprocessedÌýat scale within theÌýexistingÌýhousehold packaging recycling infrastructure.Ìý

Therefore,ÌýallÌýFBCÌýliquid carton packaging should be rated amberÌýat this stageÌýunlessÌýitÌýcontains contaminantsÌýlisted as redÌýat this stage.Ìý

RedÌý

Assess yourÌýFBCÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýorÌýcomponentÌýas red ifÌýtheÌýpolymer content contains:Ìý

• less than 80%ÌýPEÌý

• more than 20%Ìýpolypropylene (PP)ÌýÌý

• more than 5%ÌýPETÌýÌý

• any proportion ofÌýbiodegradable polymersÌýÌý

Stage 4: FBC (liquid cartons) applicationÌý

AmberÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitem of packaging or componentÌýas amber ifÌýitÌýcontains:ÌýÌý

• aluminiumÌý

• PE between 80% and 90% by weight of polymer content Ìý

• PP between 10% and 20% by weight by polymer content Ìý

• PET with less thanÌýor equal toÌý5% by weight of polymer content Ìý

• wax coatings, including wax emulsions and dispersions – this does not apply to waxes used in printing inks Ìý

RedÌý

AssessÌýyour itemÌýof packagingÌýor componentÌýasÌýredÌýif it contains:Ìý

• urea-formaldehyde Ìý

• urea-melamine Ìý

• glass or carbon fibresÌý

• siliconeÌý

Fibre-based composite materialsÌý(non-liquid cartons)Ìý

Examples of FBCÌý(non-liquid cartons)Ìýinclude:Ìý

• packaging for dry foods – for example,Ìýrice, sugar, flour mixesÌý

• packaging for snacks or cereals with an inner barrier layerÌý

• boxes for products like washing detergentsÌýthat need moisture protectionÌý

• moulded fibre-based packs or trays for ready meals with a plastic coatingÌý

• single-use beverage containers such as coffee cupsÌý

Stage 1: FBCÌý(non-liquid cartons) collectionÌý

GreenÌý

FBCÌý(non-liquid cartons)Ìýpackaging is collected at the kerbside by at least 75% of local authorities in the UK (commonly collected) and can be rated green unless it is listed as red at this stage.Ìý

Check packaging that is commonly collected for 2027 and previous reporting years.Ìý

AmberÌýÌý

AssessÌýFBC (non-liquid cartons)ÌýpackagingÌýthat isÌýnot commonly collectedÌýasÌýamber if youÌýcanÌýmeet take-back scheme evidenceÌýrequirements.

RedÌýÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitem of packaging or componentÌýas red if it is:Ìý

• FBCÌýpackaging with more than 15% non-paper content by weight Ìý

• paddedÌýPEÌýlined envelopes  Ìý

• single-use beverage containersÌýsuch asÌýcoffee cupsÌý

StageÌý2: FBCÌý(non-liquid cartons) sortationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess yourÌýitem of packaging or componentÌýas green if itÌýisÌýat least 40mm in at least 2 dimensions.Ìý

RedÌý

Assess yourÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýorÌýcomponentsÌýas red if itÌýdoesÌýnot meet the 40mm size threshold, includingÌýundersizedÌýcomponents that cannotÌýbe reattached to theÌýmainÌýbody of theÌýpackaging item.Ìý

StageÌý3: FBCÌý(non-liquid cartons) reprocessingÌý

RedÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitem of packaging or componentÌýas red if it:Ìý

• contains urea-formaldehyde Ìý

• contains urea-melamine Ìý

• contains glass or carbon fibres Ìý

• contains silicone Ìý

• contains 2-sided lamination,Ìýsuch as PE-paper-PE,ÌýPP-paper-PP,ÌýPET-paper-PET – unless there is clear  consumer  guidance for  separating  theÌýlamination  component  and disposing of it in the appropriate kerbside waste stream Ìý

• contains 2-sided wax coating,Ìýsuch asÌýmolten wax dipÌýcoating – thisÌýdoes not apply to waxes used in printing inks Ìý

• is designed for food to be heated within it – thisÌýis because it is likely toÌýbe contaminated when disposed ofÌý

StageÌý4: FBCÌý(non-liquid cartons) application Ìý

AmberÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýor component as amber if it contains: Ìý

• non-paper content greater thanÌý10% by weight Ìý

• aluminiumÌý

• non wood-based fibres such as bagasse, palm,Ìýrice straw, wheat straw, barley straw, oat straw, grass straw, flax, hemp, and bambooÌýÌý

• adhesive lamination (inside of pack)Ìýof PET, metallisedÌýPET, orÌýPET-PEÌý

• wax dispersion, including microcrystalline waxes but does not apply to waxes used in printing inks Ìý

RedÌý

Assess your item of packaging or component asÌýredÌýif it contains: Ìý

• PVDC or PVC polymer dispersion coatingsÌý

• lamination with aluminium foil where the coating thickness is greater than or equal to 6 micronsÌý(µm) Ìý

Plastic (flexibles)Ìý

Plastics (flexibles) are packaging structures which flex easily, and whose shape is likely to change significantly after the contents are added or removed by the consumer. This packaging could be made of single or multiple laminate layers of materials. Ìý

Examples of plastics (flexibles) include:Ìý

• bagsÌý

• pouchesÌý

• envelopesÌý

• sachetsÌý

• sleevesÌý

• wrappersÌý

• lidding film or linersÌý

• crisp packetsÌý

• fruit netsÌý

• multipack rings or yokesÌý

• twist tiesÌý

Plastic (flexibles) can be made from various types of plastic polymers, including polyolefins (PO), PE, PP, and PVC, also including metallised films.ÌýÌý

Bio-based^{[footnote 1]} (drop-in) plasticsÌýcanÌýbe assessed in the same way as their traditional fossil-plastic equivalentÌýifÌýthey:Ìý

• are chemically identicalÌýÌý

• do notÌýcause quality issues when mixed with their fossil-plastic equivalentÌý

Examples could include bio-PE replacing PE, or bio-PP replacing PP.Ìý

Bio-based plasticsÌýare those made using polymers derived from plant-based sources such as starch, cellulose, or lignin.ÌýTheyÌýmayÌýbe engineered to be biodegradableÌýin some cases.Ìý

PlasticÌý(flexibles)Ìýpackaging should be rated red, unless you can meet take-back scheme evidenceÌýrequirements. If you can meet these evidence requirements you can rateÌýplastic (flexibles)Ìýas amber.Ìý

You do not need to carry out any further recyclability assessment.Ìý

Plastic (flexibles)ÌýpackagingÌýmay be collectedÌýatÌýkerbside. In this case you will be able toÌýcontinue toÌýuse take-back schemesÌýalongside kerbside collectionÌýfor the 2027 reporting year.Ìý

Plastic (rigids)Ìý

Plastics (rigids)ÌýareÌýpackaging structures which do not:Ìý

• flex easilyÌý

• changeÌýshapeÌýsignificantly whenÌýthe contentsÌýare added or removed by the consumerÌý

ÌýThese materials are typically stiff and durable, offering protection and support for a wide range of products.ÌýÌý

Common examples of rigid plastic packaging include:Ìý

• bottlesÌý

• potsÌý

• tubsÌý

• traysÌý

• fruit and vegetable punnetsÌý

• rigid lidsÌý

• tubes including mono-material laminates – for example, some toothpaste tube designs, that may appear as a hard-rigid or softer-rigid plasticÌý

• caps and closuresÌý

• cable tiesÌý

• plastic strappingÌý

You shouldÌýassess rigid plastic packaging according to the packaging format it most closely represents. For example, a rigid thermoformed PET lid or pot should be assessed in the same way as a rigid thermoformed PET tray.Ìý

You can assess bio-based (drop-in) plastics in the same way as their traditional fossil-plastic equivalentÌýifÌýthey:Ìý

• are chemically identicalÌýÌý

• do notÌýcause quality issues when mixed with their fossil-plastic equivalentÌý

ÌýExamples could include bio-PE replacing PE, or bio-PP replacing PP.Ìý

Stage 1: plastics (rigids)ÌýcollectionÌý

GreenÌý

ItemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýpredominantlyÌýmade from PET, PE, and PP are collected at the kerbside by at least 75% of local authorities in the UK (commonly collected) and can be rated green unless it is listed as redÌý(or amber if using takeback)Ìýat this stage.Ìý

AmberÌý

Assess plastic (rigids) packagingÌýthat is not commonly collectedÌýas amber ifÌýyou can meet take-back scheme evidenceÌýrequirements.Ìý

Check packaging that is commonly collected for 2027 and previous reporting years.Ìý

Stage 2: plastics (rigids) sortationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess yourÌýitemÌýof packaging or componentÌýas green if it isÌýat least 40mm in at least 2 dimensions.Ìý

AmberÌý

AssessÌýyourÌýitem of packaging or component as amber if it has an attached label or sleeve of a different material or polymer type, covering more than 60% of its surface area.ÌýÌý

Enrobed paper or board sleeves incorporating clear disposal information for the consumer about their removal are exempt from this amber rating.Ìý

RedÌý

Assess yourÌýcomponentÌýas red if itÌýdoesÌýnot meet the 40mm size threshold and cannot be reattached to theÌýmainÌýbody of theÌýpackaging item.Ìý

AssessÌýyourÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýor component as red if it usesÌýcarbon black that prevents effective near-infra redÌý(NIR)Ìýdetection.Ìý

Stage 3: plastics (rigids) reprocessingÌý

GreenÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as greenÌýat this stageÌýif they do not contain any of contaminants listed asÌýred.ÌýÌý

RedÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as red if they contain: Ìý

• PVC (including non-PVC with PVC components) Ìý

• polystyrene (including but not limited to high impact polystyrene (HIPS), expanded and extruded) Ìý

• expandedÌýPE Ìý

• oxo-degradable^{[footnote 2]}, biodegradable or compostable plastics^{[footnote 3]} Ìý

• non-polyolefin foamed plastics,Ìýsuch asÌýnon-PP and non-PE Ìý

• trigger  sprays or similar mechanisms containing glass, metal, non-PE or PP plastics, or other non-plastic components Ìý

AssessÌýyourÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýor component as red if it uses a label adhesive that does not release the label during a standard 70 to 90°C hot wash. Ìý

Assess PET bottle items of packaging and components as red if they contain: Ìý

• any use ofÌýethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH)Ìý

• caps, seals or valves made of anything other than PETÌýwith a density greater than 1g per cm3 Ìý

• attached labels or sleevesÌýmade of any polymer other than PETÌýwith a density greater than 1g per cm3Ìý

• silicone Ìý

Assess PETÌýthermoformÌýitemsÌýof packaging and componentsÌýas red ifÌýthey contain: Ìý

• any use of EVOHÌý

• any use of non-PET multilayers or laminates, for example PE seal layersÌý

• attached labels or sleevesÌýmade of any polymer other than PETÌýwith a density greater than 1g per cm3 Ìý

AssessÌýhigh-density polyethylene (HDPE) and PP items of packaging and componentsÌýas red  ifÌýthey contain: Ìý

• EVOH greater than 5% by weight Ìý

• additives that increase the packaging density greater than or equal to 1g per cm3 Ìý

• PVDC barriers or coatings Ìý

• caps comprised of steel, aluminium,Ìýpolystyrene (PS),ÌýPVC, or thermoset plastics  Ìý

• attached labels or sleeves comprised of PVC, aluminium, metallised PET, or metallised PS Ìý

• inserts, liners, or seals comprised of PS, PVC, polyurethane (PU), nylonÌý(or polyamide (PA), h±ð²¹±¹²â PET, polycarbonate (PC), acrylic (PMMA), thermoset plastics, or silicone Ìý

Stage 4: plastics (rigids) applicationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as green if they do not contain anyÌýcontaminants or additives listed as amber or red.ÌýÌý

AmberÌý

Assess PET bottle itemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýas amber ifÌýthey contain: Ìý

• external coatings or PA-3 layers Ìý

• UV stabilisers (preventing degradation, notÌýultraviolet (UV)ÌýfiltersÌýorÌýblockers), Acetaldehyde (AA)Ìýblockers Ìý

Assess PETÌýthermoformÌýitemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýas amber ifÌýthey contain: Ìý

• °¿2 s³¦²¹±¹±ð²Ô²µ±ð°ù²õ, UV stabilisers (preventing degradation, not UV filters or blockers), and AA blockers Ìý

• ¾±²Ô²õ±ð°ù³Ù²õ c´Ç³¾±è°ù¾±²õ±ð»å o´Ú  HDPE, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), PP, PET, or paper Ìý

• any NIR-detectable colour other than transparent clear – this does not include crystallised PET

Assess HDPE itemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýas amber ifÌýthey contain: Ìý

• PAÌýincluding Nylon-MXD6 as barriers or coatings Ìý

Assess PP items of packaging and components as amber if they contain: Ìý

• PAÌýincluding Nylon-MXD6 as barriers or coatings Ìý

• ¾±²Ô²õ±ð°ù³Ù²õ c´Ç³¾±è°ù¾±²õ±ð»å o´Ú HDPE, LDPE, paper, or PET Ìý

RedÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components asÌýredÌýif they contain foilÌýthat is not designed to be permanently removed prior to disposal. This does not include tear-off foil seals or closures, such as those usedÌýon a HDPE milk bottle or a PP yoghurt tub.Ìý

Assess PET bottle itemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýas red ifÌýthey contain any: Ìý

• colour other than clear or translucent light blue – this applies to the plastic itself and does not apply to any printed inks used Ìý

• direct printingÌýunless for the batch code or expiry date Ìý

Assess PETÌýthermoformÌýitemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýas red ifÌýthey contain any: Ìý

• non-NIR detectable colourÌý

• direct printingÌýunless for the batch code or expiry date Ìý

AssessÌýclear or white colouredÌýHDPEÌýor PPÌýitemsÌýof packagingÌýand componentsÌýas red ifÌýthey  contain any direct printing,Ìýunless for the batch code or expiry date. This does not include in-mould labels if they areÌýmadeÌýfromÌýthe same polymerÌýtypeÌýas the main item of packaging.

SteelÌý

Examples of steel in packaging include:Ìý

• food containers or tinsÌý

• aerosolsÌý

• cansÌý

• lids from glass bottles or jarsÌý

• rigid steel containersÌý

• closuresÌý

Stage 1: steel collectionÌý

Steel-basedÌýitemsÌýof packagingÌýand components are collected at the kerbside byÌýat leastÌý75%ÌýofÌýlocal authorities in the UKÌý(commonlyÌýcollected)ÌýandÌýcan be rated green at this stage.ÌýÌý

Check packaging that is commonly collected for 2027 and previous reporting years.Ìý

Stage 2: steel sortationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýor components less than or equal to 300mm in height, width or length as green.Ìý

AmberÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as amber if they exceed 300mm in height, width or length, unless the oversized component can be folded by the consumer to meet this size threshold.Ìý

Stage 3: steel reprocessingÌý

You should assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as green at this stage if they have been assessed as green or amber at collection and sortation stages.Ìý

Stage 4: steel applicationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýor components as green if they contain less than or equal to 30% non-steel content by weight. Ìý

AmberÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as amber if they contain more than 30% non-steel content by weight.Ìý

AluminiumÌý

Examples of aluminium packaging include:Ìý

• food containers or tinsÌý

• lids from glass bottles or jarsÌý

• aluminium tubesÌý

• bottlesÌý

• cansÌý

• rigid containersÌý

• closuresÌý

• aerosolsÌý

• foil traysÌý

• laminated foilsÌý

Stage 1: aluminium collectionÌý

GreenÌý

Aluminium-basedÌýitemsÌýof packagingÌýand components are collected at the kerbside byÌýat leastÌý75%ÌýofÌýlocal authorities in the UKÌý(commonlyÌýcollected)ÌýandÌýcan be rated green at this stage.ÌýÌý

Check packaging that is commonly collected for 2027 and previous reporting years.Ìý

Stage 2: aluminium sortationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýor components less than or equal to 300mm in height, width or length as green.Ìý

AmberÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as amber if they exceed 300mm in height, width or length, unless the oversized component can be folded by the consumerÌýso thatÌýthe resulting broken down or folded components meet the size threshold.Ìý

Stage 3: aluminium reprocessingÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as green at this stage if they have been assessed as green or amber at collection and sortation stages.Ìý

Stage 4: aluminium applicationÌý

GreenÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýor components as green if they contain less than or equal to 30% non-aluminium content by weight. Ìý

AmberÌý

Assess itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as amber if they contain more than 30% non-aluminium content by weight.Ìý

GlassÌý

Common examples of glass packaging could include:Ìý

• bottlesÌý

• jarsÌý

• perfume bottles and deodorant containers or flaconsÌý

• pots, ramekins and cosmetics containersÌý

Stage 1: glass collectionÌý

GreenÌý

Soda-lime silica-based glass itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components are collected at the kerbside byÌýat leastÌý75%ÌýofÌýlocal authorities in the UK (commonly collected) and can be rated green at this stageÌýunless listed as red.Ìý

Check packaging that is commonly collected for 2027 and previous reporting years.Ìý

AmberÌý

Assess glass packagingÌýthat is not commonlyÌýcollectedÌýas amber ifÌýyou can meet take-back scheme evidenceÌýrequirements.Ìý

RedÌý

Assess the following itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components as red at collection stage:Ìý

• mirrors or non‑mirrored flat glass Ìý

• lead crystal glass Ìý

• heat-resistant glass – for example, borosilicate and aluminosilicate glass Ìý

• pyro‑ceramic or ceramic glass Ìý

• any other non-soda-lime-silica glass  Ìý

Stage 2: glass sortationÌý

ItemsÌýof packagingÌýand components assessed as green at collection can be assessed as green at sortation stage.Ìý

Stage 3: glass reprocessingÌý

ItemsÌýof packagingÌýand components assessed as green at collection and sortation can be assessed as green at reprocessing stage.Ìý

Stage 4: glass applicationÌý

ItemsÌýof packagingÌýand components assessed as green at each stage can be assessed as green at application stage.  Ìý

WoodÌý

ExamplesÌýinclude:Ìý

• decorative and novel componentsÌý

• food traysÌý

• wooden batonsÌý

• wooden palletsÌý

Wood packaging is not collected at kerbside for recyclingÌýandÌýis not sorted or reprocessed at scale within household packaging infrastructure.ÌýÌý

Wood packaging should beÌýratedÌýred, unlessÌýyou can meet take-back scheme evidenceÌýrequirements.ÌýIf you can meet these evidence requirements you can rate wood as amber.Ìý

You do not need to carry out any further recyclability assessment.Ìý

OtherÌýmaterialsÌýÌý

Examples of other materials include:ÌýÌý

• non-plastic textiles, string, ribbonÌý

• corkÌý

• bambooÌý

• ceramic or porcelainÌý

• copperÌý

• hempÌý

• rubberÌý

• siliconeÌý

• bagasse (sugarcane fibre moulded packaging)Ìý

• natural fibres – for example,Ìýjute, coir, sisalÌý

• leather or bonded leather materialsÌý

• stone or slateÌý

Other materialsÌýpackaging is not collected at kerbside for recycling and is not sorted or reprocessed at scale within household packaging infrastructure.ÌýÌý

OtherÌýpackaging should be rated red, unlessÌýyou can meet take-back scheme evidenceÌýrequirements.ÌýIf you can meet these evidence requirements you can rate other materials as amber.Ìý

You do not need toÌýcarry out any further recyclability assessment.Ìý

Medical packaging   Ìý

If you are supplyingÌýhouseholdÌýpackaging that might be medical, you mustÌýcheckÌýit meets the definition of medical packaging set out inÌý.Ìý

Medical packaging is immediate or outer packaging on:   Ìý

• medicinal products   Ìý

• veterinary medicinal products   Ìý

• medical devices   Ìý

Immediate packaging is the container or other form of packaging that is immediately in contact with the medicinal product.   Ìý

Outer packaging is any packaging into which the immediate packagingÌýof the medicinal productÌýis placed.   Ìý

You can use the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) guidance to check if your product is a medicine.  Ìý

Reporting medical packagingÌý

MedicalÌýpackaging rated as red can beÌýreportedÌýas amber if you have evidenceÌýthat anotherÌýregulation prevents you from using a more recyclable material (known as Red by Virtue of a Regulatory Requirement (RBVORR)).Ìý

If reportingÌýas amberÌýusingÌýRBVORR, you must keep clear, specific evidence. This evidence must:   Ìý

• identify the regulation that requires the packaging to be designed in that way (including the regulation name and specific paragraph or reference)   Ìý

• show how that regulation prevents the use of more recyclable materials   Ìý

• be provided for each packaging component and for each product   Ìý

How to report your RAM assessments   Ìý

You must reportÌýyour RAM assessmentsÌýalongside otherÌýEPR forÌýpackaging data using theÌýreport packaging data (RPD) service.Ìý

Deadlines for reporting are:Ìý

• 1 OctoberÌý(to reportÌýJanuary to JuneÌýdata of the same year)Ìý

• 1ÌýAprilÌý(to reportÌýJuly to DecemberÌýdataÌýof the previous year)Ìý

Read more guidance about how to report recyclability and other packagingÌýdata.Ìý

Examples of how to reportÌýÌý

MaterialsÌýassessed separately   Ìý

Multi-material itemsÌýof packagingÌýand components that are assessed separately should be:  Ìý

• reported as separate materials  Ìý

• assigned the relevant RAM rating for each material  Ìý

Example: household jam jarÌý

A household jar of jam comprising a glass jar, a paper label, a steel lid, a hessian lid cover, and a string tie.Ìý

	Jar	Label	Lid	String Tie	Hessian Lid cover
Material category assessed in RAM	glass	glass (based onÌýpredominant material)	steel	other (non-plasticÌýtextile)	other
RAM ratingÌý(illustrative only)	green	green	green	red	red
Reported as on RPD	glass – green	paper or board – green	steel – green	other – red	other – red

Where the label and jar are notÌýintended to beÌýseparated, they are assessedÌýasÌýanÌýitem of packagingÌýusing predominant material by weightÌýto determine the material category – in this case,Ìýthe green rating of the glass jar. However, each material must be reported in accordance with the regulations, along with the assigned RAM ratingÌý(red, amber or green). ThisÌýmeansÌýthat the label and jar are reportedÌýas separate materialsÌýin RPD, but with a common  green RAM rating.Ìý

Example: household pack of batteriesÌý

A household pack of batteries in packaging made from a clear moulded plastic blister that is attached to a cardboard backing, where the plasticÌýcomponentÌýcan be separated from the cardÌýcomponent.Ìý

In this example, the blisterÌýmeets theÌýcriteriaÌýto be ratedÌýamber at theÌýplastic (rigids)Ìýapplication stage.ÌýThe cardboard backing is separated to use the product and cannot be reassembled, so is assessed as a separate component with a green rating.Ìý

	Blister	Backing
Material category assessed in RAM	plastic – rigid	paper or board
RAM ratingÌý(illustrative only)	amber	green
Reported as on RPD	plastic – amber	paper or board – green

Example: household bottle of detergentÌý

A household detergent bottle made from a clear plasticÌýPETÌýbottle,ÌýPPÌýcap andÌýPEÌýlabel should be assessed as a wholeÌýitemÌýof packaging using predominant material by weight.Ìý

The cap is an undersized itemÌýthat doesÌýnot meet the dimension threshold for sortationÌýbutÌýcan beÌýreattached by the consumer toÌýtheÌýitemÌýofÌýpackagingÌý(the bottle)Ìýas an integrated component.Ìý

The non-separable label is also an integrated component. In this example, the label is separable during reprocessing under a 70 to 90°C hot wash. If it was not separable under these conditions, the whole item of packaging would be reported as red.

The bottle is considered an item of packaging formed from these integrated componentsÌýand should continue to be assessed as a whole item.ÌýÌý

	Detergent bottle	Cap	Label
Material category assessed in RAM	plastic – rigid (predominant material)	plastic – rigid (undersizedÌýforÌýseparateÌýsortation andÌýassessment)	plastic – rigid
RAM ratingÌý(illustrative only)	green	green	green
Reported as on RPD	plastic – rigid – green	plastic – rigidÌý– green	plastic – flexible – green

EachÌýmaterial must be reported in accordance with the regulations along with the assigned RAM ratingÌý(red, amber, green).ÌýThisÌýmeansÌýthatÌýthe bottle, label and lidÌýshould beÌýreported separately in RPD, but with a common green plasticÌýRAM rating.Ìý

Example: householdÌýFBCÌýliquid cartonÌý

A household liquid carton (not meeting the definition ofÌýaÌýdrinkÌýcontainer) with the carton made of aÌýFBCÌýmaterial with a plastic cap.

	Liquid Carton	Cap
Material category assessed in RAM	FBC (predominant material)	FBC (undersized forÌýsortation and separateÌýassessment)
RAM ratingÌý(illustrative only)	amber	amber
Reported as on RPD	FBC – amber	plastic – rigid – amber

The cap is an undersized itemÌýthat does not meetÌýthe dimension threshold for sortationÌýbutÌýcan beÌýreattached toÌýtheÌýitemÌýofÌýpackagingÌý(the liquidÌýcarton)Ìýand should be considered asÌýanÌýintegrated component of theÌýitemÌýof packagingÌýto continue the assessment.Ìý

Each material must be reported in accordance with the regulations along with the assigned RAM ratingÌý(red, amber, green). In this case, this would mean that the tonnages associated with the carton and cap are reported separately, with a common amber RAM ratingÌý(based on the carton, as the predominantÌýmaterial).Ìý

Example: household aerosol canÌý

A household aerosol can made from an aluminium can, undersized PP capÌýorÌýlid, and aÌýpredominantlyÌýrigidÌýplastic valve assemblyÌýwhichÌýshould be assessed asÌýusingÌýthe predominantÌýmaterial of theÌýitemÌýofÌýpackaging.Ìý

	Can	Cap	Valve, Nozzle, Tube assembly
Material category assessed in RAM	aluminium (predominantÌýmaterial)	aluminium (undersized forÌýseparateÌýsortation andÌýassessment)	aluminium (predominantÌýmaterial)
RAM ratingÌý(illustrative only)	green	green	green
Reported as on RPD	aluminium – green	plastic – rigid – green	plastic – rigid – green

If the cap in this exampleÌýwasÌýmore thanÌý40mm in anyÌý2Ìýdimensions, itÌýwouldÌýbe assessedÌýas a separate component,Ìýas a rigid plastic.ÌýAs it is undersized, it should be assessedÌýas an integrated component withÌýthe rating of theÌýpredominantÌýmaterialÌýby weight (aluminium) – a green rating.ÌýThe valve,ÌýnozzleÌýandÌýtube assembly areÌýalsoÌýassessed as the predominant material by weightÌý(aluminium)Ìýas they are not removable from theÌýitem of packaging.Ìý

Evidence you must keep  Ìý

You do not need to submit evidence of your recyclability assessments, but you must keep the following records for 7 years and provide it to regulators if they ask for it:  Ìý

• evidence to prove you applied the correct RAM rating to your packaging  Ìý

• evidence toÌýprove you applied RBVORR correctly for medical packaging, if this applies Ìý

Re-submittingÌýyour RAM assessmentÌý

You must update your recyclability assessments if:   Ìý

• the design, manufacture or composition of the packaging changes   Ìý

• ³Ù³ó±ð RAM changes in a way that is likely to affect the outcome of the assessment for the 2027 reporting year (you should continue to use RAM version 1.1to assess recyclability for the 2026 reporting year)ÌýÌý

• there is likely to be a change to the outcome of the assessment for any other reason Ìý

Before re-submitting your assessment,ÌýyouÌýshould consider any other relevant statements fromÌýPackUKÌýabout recalculatingÌýnotices ofÌýliability.Ìý

RecyclabilityÌýtesting Ìý

Suppliers should follow recognised international standards for recyclability testing. Testing must be completed for each component assessed under the RAM and should be relevant to all stages of recyclability set out in the RAM.Ìý

If test results show specific packaging materials rated as red can be collected, sorted, and recycled within current recycling infrastructure at scale, you can submit these results toÌýPackUKÌýas evidence to consider for future iterations of ³Ù³ó±ð  RAM.Ìý  Ìý

Get help withÌýyour assessmentÌý

If you’re a member of a compliance scheme, youÌýshouldÌýcontact themÌýforÌýqueries about the RAM and assessing your packaging.   Ìý

ContactÌýthe packaging manufacturer if:Ìý

• you do not know what the packaging you supply is madeÌýofÌýÌý

• you’re missing other technical details or evidence that you need to completeÌýyourÌýassessmentÌý

ContactÌýPackUKÌýif you have anyÌýfurther queries.Ìý

Email:Ìýeprcustomerservice@defra.gov.uk