10 June 2003

BPIF Packaging Waste seminars

With EU Packaging Waste proposals due to pass into law in December 2003, the BPIF is running a series of high level seminars to outline the implications of the regulations, both operational and financial. Dale Wallis, the BPIF?s National Health, Safety & Environmental Adviser explains: "One thing is undisputed- the cost of compliance will rise in the next 5 years as Britain strives to meet new environmental targets. Whether you are already an ?obligated producer? and currently in full compliance, a free rider, who should be in compliance, or a company still below the threshold, it is important that you understand the effect of the changes on both you and your business. Companies need to be aware of and budget for these increases."The seminars will be taking place at the BPIF?s Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham offices on 12th, 17th and 18th September 2003. The cost will be £40 for members and £60 for non-members. Companies in the carton, label, newspaper, flexible packaging, business forms and wallpaper sectors in particular are encouraged to attend. Spaces are limited to please book early.Principal speaker Geoff Butterworth, chief executive of Paperpak and a member of the government?s Advisory Committee on Packaging reporting to the Minister, Michael Meacher, is well placed to comment on the impact and future development of the Regulations. Paperpak is the preferred compliance scheme for companies in the Printing and Paper Industries. Currently with 260 members it is in the top 5 national schemes.The UK response to the European Packaging Directive became effective in 1998 and, after 5 years of operation, significant changes are about to come into effect.A prolonged and in-depth examination of the structure, administration, application, enforcement and cost of the Packaging Regulations has been under way since October 2002. Following this, a major consultation will take place this summer during which businesses will have an opportunity to analyse and comment on a multitude of proposed amendments.In December 2003 most of these proposals will pass into law or become definitive guidance covering the 5 year period to 2008. The topics examined include:- The PRN (Packaging waste Recovery Note) system- Material specific targets- Lowering of the turnover threshold- Prosecution of non-compliers- On-line data captureIf you would like to receive full details of these events place email [email protected].