The department had previously notified industry that it would not be possible to issue Packaging Waste Recycling Notes (PRNs) or Packaging Waste Export Recycling Notes (PERNs) during January, with the Record Reprocessed or Exported Packaging Waste Digital Service expected to go live in February.
However, Defra has said that the solution planned for February “requires further development”, prompting the department and regulators to work as a priority on interim measures to minimise disruption.
In an update issued to stakeholders, Defra apologised for the delay, acknowledging that the situation is “deeply frustrating” for businesses across the packaging waste supply chain.
PRN and PERN trading to continue outside digital system
Defra confirmed that contracts, sales and payments for PRNs and PERNs remain outside of the digital system, meaning operators can continue to enter into agreements for PRN and PERN sales even while the digital functionality is unavailable.
Reprocessors and exporters will still be able to issue 2025 PRNs and PERNs, including December waste notes, via the National Packaging Waste Database (NPWD).
This arrangement will continue “without disruption” until the end of January 2026.
The update applies across all four UK administrations.
Defra said it is treating the issue as a priority and will provide further updates as interim measures are finalised and the digital service development continues.
Businesses seeking advice or support have been encouraged to contact the department via its EPR customer service team.
A Defra statement said: “We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through this.”
Accreditation delays
The announcement follows earlier concerns from industry over potential delays to the accreditation of packaging reprocessors and exporters.
Under the new Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging and Packaging Waste) Regulations 2024, all UK reprocessors and exporters will need to be registered and accredited from 1 January 2026 if they wish to issue PRNs or PERNs.
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