A reminder for businesses on waste recycling responsibilities

A Buckinghamshire-based company has recently made the news, not for their innovative products or services, but for their failure to adhere to regulations on recycling waste packaging.

Hi-Tech Coatings International Limited, located in Aylesbury, found themselves in hot water for neglecting their obligations under the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007. As a result of their oversight, the company has had to make a significant financial contribution of nearly £21,000 to a local charity, in addition to covering Environment Agency costs.

The company were proactive in making amends and showing how they will comply with the law in the future. The Environment Agency were willing to accept the company’s offer and did not proceed to prosecution in this case.

Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust are the beneficiaries of the company’s contribution. The money will be used to help protect local wildlife habitats and wetland areas in Buckinghamshire.

The regulations are designed to ensure that businesses take responsibility for the recycling of packaging waste. A senior technical officer for the Environment Agency, Jake Richardson, has said: “Any company handling more than 50 tonnes of packaging a year, and with turnover in excess of £2 million, must register with the Environment Agency or a packaging compliance scheme, and meet their responsibilities for recycling waste packaging.”

This financial penalty serves as a stark reminder of the importance for businesses to stay aware of their environmental responsibilities, particularly when it comes to waste management and recycling. By fulfilling their responsibilities for recycling waste packaging, companies not only mitigate financial and legal risks but also contribute to the preservation of natural ecosystems and the well-being of future generations.

See: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/buckinghamshire-firm-pays-heavily-for-packaging-oversight