New Defra data reveals nine out of ten packaging producers using non sustainable materials

Packaging Solutions

A staggering 89% of the 11,701 obligated packaging producers in the UK are still supplying non recyclable, hard to recycle, or mixed rating packaging to the market.

These figures come from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) following a Freedom of Information request by BagKraft, specialist manufacturer and supplier of high quality, sustainable bags, and bespoke promotional packaging. 

The data, released under Environmental Information Regulations, show there is still an uphill battle for absolute sustainability as 14% of producers are supplying exclusively ‘Red’ rated packaging. This means one in seven businesses remain entirely reliant on materials classified as difficult or problematic to recycle. A further 1% of producers supply strictly ‘Amber’ rated packaging, which carries significant recycling challenges. 

Three-quarters (75%) of producers are currently supplying a mix of Red, Amber, and Green rated packaging, meaning the vast majority of businesses have yet to fully transition away from problematic materials. With just 10% successfully transitioning to supplying strictly ‘Green’ packaging across their entire operations. 

These findings highlight a significant gap between corporate sustainability goals and the reality of UK supply chains. With pEPR regulations designed to penalise difficult-to-recycle materials through higher fees, businesses relying on Red and Amber-rated packaging face significant operational costs alongside reputational risks.

Jon Marling, managing director of BagKraft, commented: ‘This data from Defra is a stark reminder that while the conversation around sustainability is everywhere, the physical transition is lagging.

‘Seeing that only 10% of producers are operating entirely in the 'Green' zone is a wake up call. Moving away from 'Red' and mixed material packaging isn't just an environmental obligation anymore – with pEPR fees escalating, it is a financial necessity.’

BagKraft urges brands and retailers currently sitting in the mixed or strictly red categories to audit their portfolios immediately. By switching to easily recyclable, high performance alternatives, businesses can insulate themselves from regulatory penalties while meeting consumer demand for truly green packaging.