Producer Responsibility Organisation Polyco managing mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Plastic Packaging in SA

In 2022, South Africa took a decisive step toward a cleaner, more circular economy by introducing EPR regulations. As a non profit, industry led organisation, Polyco is dedicated to turning EPR obligations into meaningful environmental and economic results.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations make producers and importers legally responsible for the packaging they place on the market, even after it’s been used and discarded. That means if a company manufactures converts, imports or sells plastic packaging in South Africa, it is required by law to comply with the EPR framework. This includes registering with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), paying EPR fees and ensuring that post consumer packaging waste is collected and responsibly treated.

The most efficient and effective way to do this? Join an established and registered Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) and Polyco is leading the way. Failure to comply with EPR regulations doesn’t just open companies up to penalties, legal consequences and reputational risk. It also undermines the very system designed to make South Africa’s packaging sector more sustainable, inclusive and credible. So called “free riders” businesses that don’t comply create unfair advantages and place additional financial strain on those who do.

This slows down progress, disrupts industry investment and hinders the success of the EPR model. The upcoming five year review of the EPR regulations will bring even greater scrutiny. Companies still sitting on the sidelines will find themselves further exposed and increasingly isolated from credible industry led solutions and liable for prosecution by government.

Future proofing your business through EPR compliance is no longer optional it’s a smart and strategic move. Customers, retailers and regulators increasingly expect companies to demonstrate responsible environmental practices. Being part of a reputable PRO like Polyco shows that your business is not only compliant but actively contributing to a cleaner, more resource efficient South Africa. It signals credibility, builds trust with stakeholders and positions your company as a leader in sustainability, ready to meet both today’s expectations and tomorrow’s challenges.

EPR is not just a legal obligation – it’s a strategic opportunity. Businesses that lead on sustainability are better positioned to meet growing consumer, investor and regulatory expectations. Choosing the right PRO can also ease the administrative burden of compliance and unlock access to a professional, tested system built for long-term success.

Members of Polyco benefit from peace of mind that their EPR compliance is being managed by a team with deep sector knowledge, a proven track record and a commitment to transparency. The organisation provides regular updates on regulatory changes, offers detailed reporting tools and works directly with government, communities and stakeholders to ensure that efforts deliver real results. Being EPR-compliant is not just about ticking a regulatory box. It’s about protecting your brand, aligning with environmental priorities and contributing to a greener, fairer South Africa. In a world where environmental credentials increasingly shape consumer trust and business value, joining a PRO like Polyco is both a practical and reputational asset. Polyco’s approach goes beyond compliance. It builds circular systems that include everyone – from informal waste reclaimers and entrepreneurs to large-scale retailers and producers.