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At the centre of the supply chain, warehouses and third-party logistics (3PL) providers handle significant quantities of recyclable materials. From cardboard and plastic film to pallets, e-commerce packaging and materials from damaged or returned goods, waste is an inevitable part of many warehousing operations, especially for fulfilment centres processing and dispatching thousands of orders every day.<\/p>\n
As sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration for businesses, effective waste management and recycling processes are becoming more relevant across the logistics sector. Keeping up with changes to recycling regulations and industry pressures can help warehouses and 3PLs<\/a><\/span> review their operations and identify opportunities to reduce waste.<\/p>\n UK recycling and packaging policy is also evolving. Developments involving Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Packaging Waste Recycling Notes (PRNs) and the collection of flexible plastics are creating new considerations for businesses across the supply chain.<\/p>\n These developments affect how packaging waste is managed, how fulfilment operations are organised and what businesses look for when choosing a logistics provider. This guide explores the key UK recycling developments in 2026 and what they could mean for warehouses, fulfilment centres and 3PLs.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a scheme that makes eligible businesses placing packaging on the UK market financially responsible for more of the costs associated with managing packaging waste. The funding supports local authorities with the collection and disposal of household packaging waste, while the scheme also introduces requirements around packaging data and recycling obligations for businesses that meet the relevant criteria.<\/p>\n EPR is relevant for warehouses supporting retailers and manufacturers with storage, packing and distribution. However, responsibility depends on the activities of each business and the packaging involved; it is not automatically transferred to a warehouse simply because it handles or stores packaged goods. GOV.UK<\/a><\/span> guidance explains the scheme and its requirements.<\/p>\n Packaging Waste Recycling Notes (PRNs) are certificates issued by accredited UK packaging waste reprocessors to confirm that a specified amount of packaging material has been recycled. Packaging Waste Export Recycling Notes (PERNs) provide equivalent evidence for qualifying packaging waste recycled overseas. Eligible businesses use these certificates as evidence towards meeting their packaging recycling obligations.<\/p>\n The system is used when warehouses work with customers that have packaging compliance responsibilities. Although most warehouses do not need to purchase PRNs simply because they handle packaging waste, understanding the system can help them better understand their customers’ obligations and the wider packaging recycling market. The government’s PRN\/PERN reform consultation<\/a><\/span> provides further details on the proposed changes to the system.<\/p>\n Flexible plastics include materials such as plastic film, shrink wrap and certain bags and wrappers. These materials can be more difficult to recycle than some rigid plastics because in some cases are harder to sort and process using conventional recycling systems. In England, the government announced in 2026 that mandatory collections of plastic films and flexible packaging would be delayed until 1 April 2030. Fulfilment centres handling large quantities of packaging should review how flexible plastics are collected, separated and managed. Businesses should not assume that all plastic waste can be recycled through the same collection arrangements.<\/p>\n Simpler Recycling is an initiative designed to make waste collection and recycling more consistent in England. For most workplaces, including warehouses, the requirements took effect on 31 March 2025 and specify the separate collection of food waste, paper and card, and other dry recyclable materials, including plastic, metal and glass, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.<\/p>\n For warehouse operators, this makes waste segregation an important operational consideration. Reviewing waste collection arrangements can help businesses understand whether their processes meet the relevant requirements and identify opportunities to manage recyclable materials more effectively.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging makes eligible businesses that supply or import packaging onto the UK market responsible for specific packaging data, reporting and financial obligations. The scheme is designed to make producers contribute more towards the costs of managing packaging waste, including household packaging waste collected by local authorities. However, not every business is automatically covered, and a warehouse does not become responsible for a customer’s EPR obligations simply by storing or handling their goods.<\/p>\n Warehouses though can still play an important role in helping businesses understand and manage packaging throughout the fulfilment process.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n For example, a carton could arrive damaged and need replacing, or a warehouse may add cardboard, protective packaging or shrink wrap before dispatching an order. These activities can affect the types and quantities of packaging used throughout the supply chain.<\/p>\n Who is responsible for reporting that packaging depends on the relevant packaging activity and the rules that apply to the businesses involved. This means retailers, manufacturers and logistics providers should communicate clearly about packaging materials, how they are used and what data is available. Accurate records can help businesses establish their responsibilities and support any reporting they are required to complete.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 1. Packaging data and reporting<\/strong><\/p>\n Businesses with EPR reporting obligations need accurate information about the packaging they supply or import. Warehouse records can help clients understand the packaging used during fulfilment, including the quantities of cardboard, plastic film and other materials added to orders.<\/p>\n 2. Packaging choices<\/strong><\/p>\n EPR may encourage businesses to review the materials, weight and recyclability of their packaging. Retailers could look to reduce excess packaging or choose materials that are easier to recycle. For warehouses, these changes may affect packing procedures, material storage, equipment and the supplies needed to fulfil orders.<\/p>\n 3. Waste management and segregation<\/strong><\/p>\n Warehouses often generate waste from damaged cartons, surplus packaging, shrink wrap and other materials used during daily operations. Effective waste segregation and recycling arrangements can help keep recyclable materials separate and reduce the amount sent for disposal. While this supports better waste management, operational waste records should not be confused with the specific packaging data required for EPR reporting.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Packaging Waste Recycling Notes (PRNs) provide evidence that a specified quantity of packaging waste has been received for recycling at an accredited UK reprocessing facility. Packaging Waste Export Recycling Notes (PERNs) serve a similar purpose for qualifying packaging waste exported overseas for recycling. Only appropriately accredited reprocessors and exporters can issue these notes.<\/p>\n Under the UK’s packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules, large organisations covered by the regulations must obtain PRNs or PERNs to demonstrate that they have met their packaging recycling obligations. These obligations are calculated according to the packaging they report placing on the UK market, and the evidence must correspond to the relevant packaging material.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The government sets annual packaging recycling targets<\/a><\/span> for businesses with relevant obligations. For 2026, these include 77% for paper, board and fibre-based composite materials, 76% for glass, 81% for steel, 57% for plastic and 46% for wood. The targets are scheduled to increase further in 2027, with increases of up to two percentage points depending on the material.<\/p>\n PRNs and PERNs provide eligible businesses with evidence towards meeting these obligations and form part of the funding mechanism for packaging waste recycling.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n For example:<\/p>\n Cardboard: Keeping clean, dry cardboard separate from general waste can make it easier to collect for recycling.<\/p>\n Plastic film: Separating suitable film from mixed waste can support dedicated recycling collections.<\/p>\n Wooden pallets: Recording damaged pallets and arranging suitable reuse or recycling routes can help reduce avoidable waste.<\/p>\n Waste records: Tracking the quantities collected and the contractors handling them gives businesses a clearer picture of their waste streams.<\/p>\n Although these steps do not replace formal PRN or PERN requirements, they can support more effective waste management and improve visibility across the supply chain.<\/p>\n As packaging recycling requirements continue to develop, effective waste segregation and accurate records can help warehouses and logistics providers support their customers while improving their own operational efficiency.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Flexible plastics are lightweight packaging materials that can bend, stretch or fold rather than hold a rigid shape. Common examples in warehouse and fulfilment operations include pallet stretch wrap, shrink wrap, plastic film, plastic bags and flexible protective packaging used to secure goods during storage and transportation.<\/p>\n Despite their widespread use, flexible plastics can be challenging to recycle. Their lightweight nature, potential contamination from labels, adhesives or other waste, and the different types of plastic used can make collection, sorting and processing more difficult. As a result, recycling options can vary depending on the material and the facilities available locally.<\/p>\n In England, the government’s planned mandatory collection of plastic films and flexible packaging has been delayed until 1 April 2030. This does not mean flexible plastics cannot be recycled before that date. Warehouses should continue to check which materials their waste contractors accept and use suitable recycling services where available. The Local Government Association\u2019s briefing<\/a><\/span> on flexible plastic recycling provides further details on the delay and its implications for local authorities.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Warehouses and 3PLs can take several practical steps:<\/p>\n By improving segregation and reviewing packaging practices, warehouses can make better use of available recycling services, reduce avoidable waste and improve visibility of the materials generated during fulfilment.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n While some policies like the flexible plastic recycling scheme has been delayed to 2030 it does not hurt to get ahead of improving your operations right now. Being able to reduce packaging waste cuts costs, makes your warehouse more attractive to businesses and supports government schemes for incentives. Warehouses and fulfilment centres can reduce packaging waste through various methods:<\/p>\n 1. Audit Warehouse Waste<\/strong><\/p>\n Start by identifying the main types of waste generated during receiving, storage, picking, packing and dispatch. Record the materials produced, approximate quantities and how they are currently disposed of or recycled. This provides a baseline for identifying waste reduction opportunities and assessing whether existing collection arrangements are suitable.<\/p>\n 2. Improve Waste Segregation<\/strong><\/p>\n 3. Review Packaging Use<\/strong><\/p>\n Assess whether packaging is being used efficiently throughout fulfilment operations. Reducing unnecessary cardboard, avoiding excessive pallet wrapping and selecting suitable recyclable materials can help limit waste, provided goods remain adequately protected during storage and transport.<\/p>\n 4. Keep Useful Packaging and Waste Records<\/strong><\/p>\n Accurate operational records can help warehouses understand the materials they use and discard. Tracking packaging consumption, waste collections and recycling volumes can also support conversations with customers that have packaging reporting obligations under EPR. However, these records do not replace any formal reporting or PRN\/PERN requirements that apply to an obligated business.<\/p>\n 5. Work With Customers and Waste Contractors<\/strong><\/p>\n Speak with customers about packaging specifications, reporting needs and opportunities to reduce waste. At the same time, review waste contractor arrangements to understand which materials can be recycled, how they must be prepared and where collection services are available. Clear responsibilities and regular communication can help prevent confusion across the supply chain.<\/p>\n 6. Monitor Regulatory Changes<\/strong><\/p>\n Keep up to date with official guidance on packaging EPR, PRNs and PERNs, workplace recycling requirements and flexible plastic collections. As rules and collection services change, periodic reviews can help warehouses identify where procedures may need updating.<\/p>\n By combining better waste segregation, efficient packaging practices and accurate records, warehouses and 3PLs can improve their recycling processes while supporting customers’ wider sustainability and packaging compliance objectives.<\/p>\n 7. Bale or Compact Suitable Materials<\/strong><\/p>\n 8. Reduce Packaging at Source<\/strong><\/p>\n Reducing packaging before it becomes waste can help warehouses lower material use and improve operational efficiency. Review picking and packing processes to identify opportunities to use appropriately sized cartons, avoid unnecessary void fill and minimise excessive stretch wrap. Work with customers and suppliers to explore reusable packaging or alternative materials where suitable. Any reduction should still provide sufficient protection for goods during storage and transport, helping avoid damage, returns and additional waste.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A provider’s approach to packaging waste and recycling can also affect operational efficiency, sustainability reporting and how effectively packaging is managed throughout the supply chain.<\/p>\n As recycling requirements evolve, asking the right questions can help businesses understand what a potential logistics partner can offer and whether its processes align with their own sustainability and compliance objectives. Questions include:<\/p>\n How do you manage cardboard waste?<\/p>\n Do you separate plastic film from general waste?<\/p>\n What happens to damaged pallets?<\/p>\n Can you reuse packaging materials?<\/p>\n Do you offer packaging optimisation?<\/p>\n How do you manage fulfilment packaging?<\/p>\n Do you measure waste or recycling volumes?<\/p>\n Can you support our sustainability requirements?<\/p>\n Can you provide waste data?<\/p>\n What happens to recyclable materials after collection?<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Recycling and waste management are becoming increasingly important considerations when choosing warehouse space<\/a><\/span>. Alongside location, storage capacity, fulfilment services and cost, businesses need to consider whether a warehouse can support their packaging processes, recycling arrangements and wider sustainability objectives.<\/p>\n This is important for businesses with their own environmental targets to meet. Choosing a suitable logistics partner can help them review how packaging waste is managed, what operational data is available and whether the provider’s processes align with their requirements.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you’re looking for pallet storage<\/a><\/span>, e-commerce fulfilment<\/a><\/span> or a provider that can support your wider sustainability objectives, comparing suitable options can help you make a more informed decision.<\/p>\n Some whichwarehouse members promote environmental credentials, including organic certifications or licences where relevant. If these are important to your business, ask providers which credentials they hold and confirm that they are applicable to your products and operations. whichwarehouse can also help those looking to promote their organic warehouse space and 3PL operations.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n Get free quotes<\/a><\/span> through whichwarehouse to compare providers, discuss your operational requirements and find warehouse space that works for your business. If your company has its own recycling or sustainability targets to meet, make these requirements clear when requesting quotes so potential providers can explain how they may be able to support them.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n GOV.UK : Extended producer responsibility for packaging<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n GOV.UK : Extended producer responsibility for packaging: recycling obligations and waste disposal fees<\/a><\/p>\nWhat Are the Biggest Recycling Changes Affecting UK Warehouses in 2026?<\/h2>\n
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Changes to UK recycling and packaging policy are creating new considerations for warehouses and 3PL providers. From packaging producer responsibility to recycling compliance and flexible plastic collections, several developments are relevant to how businesses manage waste across the supply chain.<\/p>\nExtended Producer Responsibility (EPR)<\/h3>\n
Packaging Waste Recycling Notes (PRNs)<\/h3>\n
Flexible plastic recycling<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nSimpler Recycling and workplace waste separation<\/h3>\n
What Does Extended Producer Responsibility Mean for Warehouses?<\/h2>\n
How Does EPR Relate to Warehouse Operations?<\/h3>\n
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A typical fulfilment operation<\/a><\/span> involves receiving goods, storing and handling stock, picking orders, packing products and preparing them for dispatch. At each stage, packaging may be used, damaged or discarded.<\/p>\nThree Key Considerations for Warehouses and 3PLs<\/h3>\n
What Can 3PLs Do to Prepare?<\/h3>\n
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Ultimately, EPR is not just a regulatory consideration for eligible producers. It also highlights the value of accurate packaging data, effective waste management and communication across the supply chain. By reviewing their processes and working closely with customers, warehouses and 3PLs can help businesses gain a clearer picture of packaging use and identify opportunities to improve their operations.<\/p>\nPRNs and Recycling Costs<\/h2>\n
How Do PRNs Relate to Recycling Targets and Costs?<\/h3>\n
What Does This Mean for Warehouses?<\/h3>\n
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Warehouses and fulfilment centres handle large quantities of packaging materials. How these materials are sorted, stored and passed to waste contractors can affect the quality of recyclable waste and the accuracy of operational records.<\/p>\nFlexible Plastic Recycling<\/h2>\n
What Can Warehouses Do to Improve Flexible Plastic Recycling?<\/h3>\n
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Warehouses and fulfilment centres can generate substantial quantities of flexible plastic, particularly through pallet wrapping, product protection and order packing. Effective segregation helps prevent suitable recyclable materials from being mixed with general waste, while reducing contamination can improve the likelihood that collected materials are accepted for recycling.<\/p>\n\n
How can warehouses reduce packaging waste?<\/h2>\n
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Keep recyclable materials separate from general waste wherever appropriate collection services are available. Cardboard, suitable plastic film, wooden pallets and other recyclable materials may require different collection arrangements. Clear signage, accessible waste stations and staff training can help reduce contamination and make segregation easier to maintain.<\/p>\n![\"Stacked](\"http:\/\/www.whichwarehouse.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Stacked-Cardboard-Bales-300x181.jpg\")
Warehouses that generate large volumes of cardboard and suitable plastic film can consider using balers or compactors to reduce the space occupied by waste. Baling recyclable materials can make storage and collection more efficient, reduce the frequency of collections in some operations and help keep waste areas organised. Before investing in equipment, check the materials your recycling contractor accepts, available space, expected volumes and staff training requirements. Equipment must also be operated in line with appropriate safety procedures.<\/p>\nWhat businesses should ask a 3PL about recycling?<\/h2>\n
What does this mean when choosing warehouse space?<\/h2>\n
Find Warehouse Space With whichwarehouse<\/h2>\n
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whichwarehouse<\/a><\/span> helps businesses compare warehouse and fulfilment providers across the UK. You can search by location or by your specific requirements<\/a><\/span> to identify potential partners offering the services and facilities your business needs.<\/p>\nSources:<\/h3>\n