What is the function of the EPR ‘Scheme Administrator’?
The establishment of the Extended Producer Responsibility SA has been long-awaited, as it will perform an essential role in overseeing critical functions within the EPR system. This includes the management of the Local Authority Waste Management fees for Local Authorities as well as carrying out efficiency and effectiveness assessments on Local Authority collection systems.
Previously, Defra had asserted that, based on legal counsel, the SA would be from the public sector due to its role in disbursing EPR producer fees to local authorities. However, the ongoing consultation on the clarity of the main EPR statutory instrument and the overall rollout of the new policy could suggest the possibility of industry participation in performing other essential functions.