Issue - meetings

To provide an update on the packaging extended producer responsibility funding (pEPR) from Defra.

Members were presented with the packaging Extended Producer Responsibility funding (pEPR) report from Defra 2025 that was part of the new waste regulatory framework. The report confirmed that all producers of packaging waste would be required to pay into a fund which was then distributed to local authorities to cover the cost of collecting and disposing of this packaging.

Members thanked officers for the report and their work to date in respect of preparations for the forthcoming Food Waste Service.

It was moved by Councillor Hodgkins, seconded by Councillor Crooks and

                        RESOLVED –

(i)            That Executive note the funding for 2025 and the potential reduction in funding in future should HBBC be deemed to fail to meet the efficient and effective criteria.

(ii)          That Executive note the current assessment of low-medium risk of future reductions in funding reported in 3.11 and 3.12 of the report.

(iii)         That Executive endorsed the recommendations in 3.12 of the report:-

i)             HBBC appeared to currently have low – medium risk of reduced pEPR payments based on efficient and effective assessment.

ii)            Consideration be given to reducing the size of replacement bins and a sticker on residual bins. Funding for this sticker would be provided within the Government’s transitional food waste allocation to HBBC. Both of these changes would be discussed with the Leader/Executive briefing and built into the waste collection policy which is currently being updated.

iii)           In 2026 further consideration should be given to a separate paper and card collection. This should include dialogue with both Leicestershire County Council and the wider Leicestershire Waste Partnership. Due consideration should also be given to LGR impacts.

iv)           This review would be repeated annually or as clarity emerged from the scheme administrator.