Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Poland: What You Need to Know

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Poland: What You Need to Know

As global concern over environmental sustainability increases, more countries are rolling out frameworks to hold businesses accountable for their products’ environmental impacts. This concept, known as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), is being widely adopted across the European Union — including Poland.

At its core, EPR is a policy approach that places the responsibility for post-consumer waste — such as recycling and disposal — directly on producers, rather than governments or end-users. It's an essential step toward building a circular economy and reducing landfill and pollution.

Understanding EPR: More Than Just Product Maintenance

While many consumers are used to manufacturers offering warranties or repair services, EPR expands this idea to include the entire product lifecycle — especially the waste phase. Under EPR laws, producers must cover the costs of proper product recycling or disposal, thereby encouraging more sustainable product design and waste reduction.

EPR Implementation in Poland

Poland’s EPR framework is aligned with European Union directives, meaning that the structure and categories largely mirror those found across other EU countries.

Currently, three main EPR categories are regulated in Poland:

1. Packaging Waste Management

This category encompasses all forms of packaging, including:

· Primary packaging (product containers or wrapping)

· Secondary packaging (such as boxes used for retail display)

· Tertiary or transport packaging (bulk shipping materials like pallets or crates)

The regulation applies to packaging made from materials such as:

· Plastic

· Wood

· Aluminum

· Steel

· Glass

· Cardboard, paper, and other fibres

For detailed regulatory information, refer to official Polish legislative resources here and here.

2. WEEE – Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment

Products are classified as WEEE if they:

· Require electrical currents or electromagnetic fields to operate

· Are intended to generate, transfer, or measure electrical/electromagnetic energy

· Operate within a maximum voltage of 1000V AC or 1500V DC

WEEE is divided into six EU-standard categories:

1. Temperature regulation equipment

2. Monitors/screens (over 100 cm²)

3. Lamps

4. Large household or industrial equipment

5. Small electronics and appliances

6. Small IT and telecommunications devices

For more on Polish WEEE legislation, click here.

3. Battery Regulations

Poland regulates three classes of batteries:

· Portable batteries

· Automotive batteries

· Industrial batteries

These are subject to specific collection and recycling requirements, which you can review here.

Who Must Comply with Poland’s EPR Regulations?

EPR compliance isn’t limited to product manufacturers. The term "producer" under Polish EPR law can include:

· Domestic manufacturers selling in Poland

· Importers bringing products into Poland

· Local retailers selling imported goods

· Distributors within the Polish supply chain

· International sellers distributing into the Polish market

Note: Requirements may vary slightly by EPR category, depending on the nature of the goods.

EPR Compliance Process: Key Steps for Businesses

To comply with Poland’s EPR laws, businesses must:

1. Appoint an Authorized Representative (AR) – Non-Polish businesses may be required to designate a local AR to handle EPR obligations.

2. Partner with a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) – A PRO is necessary to manage the logistics of product take-back, recycling, or disposal on your behalf.

How TBA Ecofuture Can Assist

At TBA Ecofuture, we understand the complexities of navigating EPR regulations across different jurisdictions. Our expert compliance services can help your business:

· Determine which EPR categories apply to your products

· Handle all necessary registrations and reporting

· Appoint qualified AR and PRO partners in Poland

· Ensure compliance with evolving Polish and EU regulations

Staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding fines — it’s also a commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Contact TBA Ecofuture today to learn how we can simplify EPR compliance for your business in Poland and throughout the EU.

Contact us to get your free consultation.