The British Plastics Federation (BPF) is calling on companies to report any false claims of recycled content in plastic products they encounter to the Environment Agency.
The BPF says it is concerned some companies may be falsely claiming that their products contain recycled content, or that the amount of recycled content within products is being exaggerated.
Companies could do this to avoid paying the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) or, for non-packaging products, to make false, ‘greenwashing’ claims to assist marketing efforts. BPF argues that a verification and/or certification scheme is needed to reduce fraud.
It feels systems have to be agreed at a national – and ultimately international – level to ensure a level playing field that does not disadvantage companies complying with legislation.
Companies that commit fraud also make it more difficult for legitimate companies to thrive.
The BPF is the UK trade association representing the entire plastics supply chain, including plastic recyclers. The BPF sent a letter to HMRC, highlighting its concern of potential fraud within the PPT in 2024.
BPF Sustainability Manager Helen Jordan commented: “Let’s remember that almost all companies have integrity and always try to act according to the law.
“However, a few bad actors can potentially tarnish the reputation of the entire industry and blight the image of recycled plastics in the eyes of the public. Companies that commit fraud also make it more difficult for legitimate companies to thrive.
“We call on companies to report any instances of fraud they encounter to the Environment Agency so that appropriate measures can be taken against them. The more fraud is reported, the more it will be on the minds of those in government.”
