In a comprehensive legislative amendment, various product categories will be included in the extended producer responsibility (EPR) in Finland from 1 January 2024.
Packaging
Previously, this obligation only applied from an annual turnover of 1 million euros. From 1 January 2024, this turnover limit will be lifted and every packaging manufacturer must register in Finland, regardless of their annual turnover.
Batteries
In line with the regulations for electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), an authorised representative will now also be mandatory for foreign manufacturers who sell batteries and accumulators in Finland. The exact timing of this obligation remains unclear at present.
Waste streams
Further waste streams will be integrated into the extended producer responsibility in a timeframe between 2023 and 2025. These include single-use plastics, balloons, wet wipes, drinks cups, fishing equipment and tobacco products. From 1 January 2025, this will also apply to fishing equipment, while tobacco products will already be affected from 31 December 2023.
In addition to the waste streams mentioned, further integrations into the extended producer responsibility are to be expected in the future, including textiles, cosmetics and medical devices. The exact timing for the inclusion of these waste streams remains unclear at present and will depend on further decisions by the Finnish government.
Do you need help registering your products? We will be happy to advise you.
