Guidance

Recyclability assessment methodology: decision tree diagram

A decision tree illustrating the process for deciding the recyclability of materials under the recyclability assessment methodology (RAM), part of extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging

• From: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
• Published: 4 March 2025

Documents

Recyclability assessment methodology: decision tree diagram

PDF, 262 KB, 1 page

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Details

From 1 January 2025, liable producers who supply household packaging must assess the recyclability of that packaging and report the results of the assessment to the environmental regulator. This is part of EPR for packaging.

Find out more about EPR for packaging, including who is liable, what you must report, how to report it and deadlines.

There is detailed guidance that will help you complete the RAM:

• how to assess your packaging waste - an overview that explains who must do this, how to assess packaging waste and how to report it
• how to assess and rate individual materials - use this to find red, amber or green ratings for your packaging materials
• definitions and background - this explains the stages of recyclability and some technical terms

This diagram supplements that guidance. It illustrates the stages of deciding whether a piece of packaging should be classified as red, amber or green under the RAM and can be used as a basis for creating your own process diagrams.

Published 4 March 2025