Within the EU, Germany has been mindful and proactive in the approach to disposable product packaging. 

Beginning in 1991 with the introduction of the first “packaging ordinance”, this legal framework was the first implementation of EPR as we know it today.

This first iteration of Extended Producer Responsibility passed responsibility & costs of packaging disposal to the industry while also offering incentives to those who aim to make their products more environmentally friendly by increasing the recyclability of their product packaging.

In 2019 Germany introduced a new & updated packaging act, refining and further increasing the rate at which packaging is to be recycled.
Between 1991 and 2016, the total amount of packaging recycled per year increased from 37.7% to 76.2%. Proving that Germanies packaging laws are very effective and constantly achieving their goals. Going forwards, Germany plans to continue to improve the efficacy of its EPR regulations.

To increase compliance with the evolving packaging laws, Germany has introduced governing bodies with a mandatory sign up for all businesses selling products in Germany. The LUCID packaging register and a packaging license, failing to register can result in a 200,000 Euro fine. The LUCID packaging register is available to be viewed by the public, and it is common for German competitors to send cease and desist letters to those not complying with the law. This can be very costly for the receiving company.

Here at TBA Global, we advise and guide organizations and start-ups alike through the process of becoming fully EPR compliant.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you avoid penalties and make the most out of selling products into Germany and the EU.