The EPR concept has proven to be one of the most widely used environmental tools for managing end-of-life products and waste. The number of countries adopting ERP regulations is rapidly growing, affecting an increasing number of online sellers.
In this article, we’ll look at EPR, explain how it affects marketplace sellers, and how to comply with the new green approach
Definition of EPR
EPR, or Extended Producer Responsibility, is an environmental policy that aims to reduce the negative environmental impact of products. The EPR approach shifts responsibility for product lifecycle management from local governments to manufacturers.
In fact, the EPR applies to all those who place products on the market, including importers and sellers.
What products are covered by EPR regulations?
The scope and categories of EPR requirements vary by country. EPR can expand to cover more categories over time, and rules can be updated. It’s a good idea to keep your finger on the pulse of each marketplace’s EPR requirements updates.
Here is a list of some EPR-eligible products:
- Packaging
- Electric and Electronic Equipment
- Batteries
- Chemicals
- Tires
- Furniture
How sellers are affected by EPR regulations?
Marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay must ensure that sellers comply with EPR regulations in France and Germany beginning in 2022. Sellers must obtain an EPR registration number in order to demonstrate EPR compliance and avoid having their listings suspended.
Despite the fact that EPR regulations vary by country, the algorithm is essentially the same and consists of three steps:
Registration
You must register with the appropriate authorities in the countries where you are selling and obtain EPR registration numbers. Then, you must report them to your marketplace as proof of eligibility once they are received.
Reporting
When you sell products in the EPR categories, you must report your sales to the appropriate entities, such as PRO (Producer Responsibility Organisation). They are in charge of collecting and recycling EPR-regulated products on your behalf.
Payment
PRO collects eco-fees from sellers in some countries. The price is determined by the EPR product category, type of device, product attributes, sold weight, and quantity.
EPR regulations in the USA, Canada, and UK
As previously stated, each country has its own EPR laws. Here’s a quick overview of the EPR rules in some popular selling locations. As the seller, you must keep track of EPR updates in the countries where you sell.
USA EPR regulations
Under the ‘Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act,’ the United States implemented EPR regulations for packaging in 2021. Maine was the first state to use EPR to reduce packaging waste. In 2022, the trend of more states passing EPR legislation continued, and more states are expected to join the list in 2023.
Canada EPR regulations
In Canada, EPR has also been a success story. Provinces in Canada are currently implementing EPR and Product Stewardship frameworks to reduce waste from electronics, appliances, paint, and engine oil. Unlike EPR, Product Stewardship programs charge fees to the government or consumers.
UK EPR regulations
By reforming existing Packaging Waste Regulations, EPR became effective for sellers in the UK in 2023. Producers must plan for higher costs and a more detailed reporting system for the use of recyclable packaging.
Summary
Developing a circular economy to manage end-of-life products is a top priority, and the list of countries where EPR rules are in effect grows by the year.
Sellers should monitor news about new EPR rules in the countries and marketplaces where they sell. As a result, they can do whatever is necessary to comply with the new EPR rules and avoid listing suspension as soon as possible.
M2E Pro is always up to date with the latest e-commerce developments. M2E Pro users can easily configure EPR specifics for products on eBay.fr with a few clicks.
Read our guide or watch a short video tutorial to learn more about how to comply with EPR on eBay France.
