31 May 2022

Plastic Tax and PCR Content

The Plastic Tax, which came into effect from April 2022, is applied to plastic packaging with less than 30% recycled content. The liability for this tax falls with UK manufacturers who produce the packaging or importers/those who make the first commercial use of the packaging in the UK.

At Evans we are collaborating closely with our supply chain to incorporate at least 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content into our packaging, safely and where possible. Trials have been completed on some pack sizes and the PCR content bottles are now making their way to our customer base.

Why do we think this is a good idea?

We have various reasons for the incorporation of PCR content into our packaging.
 
  1. The sustainability benefits from promoting a circular economy into our packaging.
  2. Mitigating having to pay plastic tax.
  3. Reducing the carbon footprint of our products.

What does this mean for customers?

As a responsible company we would not change our packaging if we were unsure of the quality with which the products would be delivered. This has not, therefore, been an overnight change but one that has been ongoing for several months whilst we conduct filling and transportation trials on the various packs we are supplying.

The incorporation of PCR content does make the bottles a greyer colour than the bright white bottles we have previously supplied.

Are all packs going to contain PCR materials?

No, with some pack sizes and regulations that we have to abide by to fill and transport these particular packs, PCR content is not available. The packs affected by this are predominantly 10 litres and above.

When there are safe solutions, and the regulations we have to adhere to allow, then more of the packs we fill will include PCR content.

Vikki Morris
Environment and Sustainability Manager


If you would like to download a copy of this statement, please click HERE