Why PCR Packaging Matters in 2025

21st August 2023

With growing environmental pressure and stricter packaging regulations such as the UK Plastic Packaging Tax and the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), integrating post-consumer recycled (PCR) content into your packaging strategy is no longer optional- it’s essential.

At BlueSky, we help brands futureproof their packaging by offering high-quality, regulation-ready PCR options for plastic and aluminium packaging.

What Is PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) Content?

PCR content refers to materials that have been used by consumers, collected through recycling systems, and then reprocessed into new packaging. This is distinct from post-industrial recycled material, which comes from factory waste before it reaches the consumer.

Common PCR materials include:

PET and PCR-PET bottles and jars
Aluminium bottles and tins
HDPE bottles

Incorporating PCR content supports a circular economy – reducing landfill waste, conserving resources, and cutting carbon emissions.

Why PCR Packaging Should Be on Your Radar

1. Stay Compliant with the UK Plastic Packaging Tax
Since April 2025, UK businesses must pay £223.69 per tonne on plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled content. Using PCR helps you:

Avoid tax liabilities
Improve cost-efficiency
Demonstrate proactive regulatory compliance

2. Prepare for the PPWR (EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation)
The PPWR has set regulatory targets for recyclability and recycled content by 2030. Transitioning now gives your brand a head start on:

PCR content thresholds: Plastic packaging in the EU must include at least 30% PCR content by 2030, rising to 50% by 2040.
Packaging reuse and recyclability rules
Market access across the EU

3. Reduce Your Environmental Footprint
PCR materials consume significantly less energy to produce than virgin materials. This reduces your Scope 3 emissions, supporting broader ESG and net-zero goals.

4. Win Over Eco-Conscious Consumers
Sustainability sells. Consumers are increasingly choosing brands that prioritise the environment. Highlighting your use of PCR content can improve customer trust and loyalty.

How BlueSky Supports Your PCR Transition

Diverse PCR Packaging Options: From PCR PET jars and bottles to aluminium containers with recycled content, we help you integrate sustainability without compromising performance.
Supplier Assurance: We work only with trusted, compliant suppliers to ensure the integrity and traceability of recycled materials.
Regulatory Guidance: Our team helps you audit, verify, and label PCR content accurately- essential for compliance and transparency.
Marketing Support: Need to shout about your sustainability efforts? We’ll help you turn your PCR switch into a compelling customer story with tailored content and claims guidance.

Partner with BlueSky for Sustainable, Compliant Packaging

Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ – it’s a commercial and regulatory imperative. Whether you’re selling in the UK, EU, or globally, switching to PCR is a strategic move for your brand and your bottom line.

Explore our PCR-ready packaging range or speak to our experts today.

[email protected]

+44 (0)1472 240940

You may also be interested in reading:

BlueSky thinking,’PPWR is Coming. Is Your Packaging Ready?’

BlueSky thinking, ‘Navigating the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation’

PCR Content in Aluminium Packaging: A Sustainable Choice

Sustainable Packaging and Circularity

Aluminium’s Ascendancy: BlueSky’s Vision for Beverage Packaging

BlueSky’s 100% PCR 70cl Aluminium Bottles: Style Meets Sustainability

How BlueSkys PCR Solutions Tackle Plastic Packaging Tax Challenges

BlueSky’s Enhanced PCR Packaging Range