PackUK updates RAM 2027 to clarify recyclability rules for pEPR
Key takeaways
- PackUK has updated its RAM 2027 framework following industry consultation, with changes to recyclability rules and definitions.
- Producers must use RAM 2027 for packaging supplied in 2027, while 2025 and 2026 reporting should continue under the April 2025 methodology.
- Ecosurety, European Recycling Platform, and Beyondly say the early publication gives producers more time to prepare data systems and assess potential cost impacts.
After a period of industry consultation, PackUK has updated its Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM), including changes to material rules, definitions, assessment guidance, and usability.
PackUK is the official scheme administrator for the UK’s packaging EPR (pEPR) program. RAM 2027 is the updated framework that producers must use to assess the recyclability of packaging using a red, amber, and green scale, which determines fee modulation.
The updated methodology applies to packaging supplied in 2027. PackUK says that for 2025 and 2026 reporting, producers should continue to use the previous version, published in April 2025.
However, PackUK urges producers to get acquainted with the RAM 2027 as soon as possible, to ensure maximum compliance. “It is vital that producers ensure they are referring to the correct version for each assessment,” says the pEPR administrator.
In response to RAM 2027, Robbie Staniforth, chief policy and impact officer at Ecosurety, tells Packaging Insights that it welcomes PackUK’s approach to updating its recyclability definitions.
“Releasing the revised methodology now gives us time to recodify our members’ packaging and to explain what these changes might mean for their costs, well ahead of reporting deadlines in October 2027. This advanced warning acts as a signal that will be used to further improve packaging and reduce the amount of unrecyclable waste being created.”
PackUK points toward UK packaging PRO as playing a “significant role” in shaping the ongoing developments of RAM 2027.
Getting prepared
RAM 2027 builds on version 1.1, released in April 2025, which modified the definition of fiber-based composite packaging, removed the red rating of retained residue on paperboard packaging from consideration, as well as labels covering more than 40% of a plastic bottle.
Regarding the most recent updates to the RAM, Staniforth explains that most of the changes are clarifications and simplifications.
“For example, explaining the evidence base for deciding whether an item of packaging is ‘commonly collected’ or not,” he says.
The European Recycling Platform also states that the RAM 2027 update is a “significant evolution” of the UK’s pEPR compliance monitoring. “Releasing the revised methodology well in advance is important. Producers need months to change their data systems to support accurate reporting.”
Real-world assessments
RAM 2027 aims to strengthen recyclability ratings alongside real‑world recycling systems, something that Staniforth says Ecosurety is “particularly pleased to see.”
“The new pEPR system is designed to build an efficient and effective system that promotes recyclable packaging. While these annual technical changes make it difficult for producers to keep pace, we believe they are urgently needed to ensure that definitions are in lock-step with the evolving recycling landscape,” he concludes.
In addition, compliance specialist Beyondly says PackUK’s RAM roadmap gives producers visibility on future methodology changes, including RAM 2027
PackUK shares that the RAM 2027 update reflects “extensive engagement” with the packaging value-chain, including producers, trade associations, and technical specialists.
“The updated methodology responds directly to stakeholder feedback, with a focus on improving clarity, consistency, and accessibility,” says the pEPR scheme administrator.
