Recyclability assessment methodology: materials and outputs

This is detailed technical guidance for the recyclability assessment methodology (RAM).

There are sections on each of the materials that much be assessed for the RAM. Each section explains:

• what kind of packaging units or components belong in this category
• the recyclability of sub-materials when assessed against 4 factors - collection, sortation, reprocessing and application
• an output for each sub-material - red, amber or green

This output should be recorded and submitted when you report your packaging data.

ThereYou isshould alsoread athis broaderguide overviewalongside ofother the RAM information that explains:covers:  

• who must do this

• how to assess your packaging waste  

• how

  definitions and background - this explains the stages of recyclability and some technical terms 

• clarifications and additional information to reporthelp ityou carry out your RAM assessment 

• the RAM decision tree

June 2025 regulatory position statement on the RAM

The environmental regulators have issued a statement on collecting and reporting data under the RAM.

This only applies to Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) data collection and reporting. It does not apply to any other data you must collect and report for EPR for packaging.

Read the regulatory position statement to understand how this affects your data submission.