Glossary

EPR and sustainability, explained.

Plain-language definitions for EPR, waste management, and environmental compliance. No jargon, no filler.

What is a battery QR code?

Battery QR Codes track battery info from use to recycling, helping extend life, ensure safe disposal, recover valuable materials, and support a circular economy for a greener planet.

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What is a beverage can?

Beverage cans, mostly aluminum, are lightweight, recyclable, and save energy. Recycling them cuts pollution and supports a circular economy, making drinks fresher and packaging eco-friendly.

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What is a beverage carton (Tetra Pak)?

Beverage cartons protect drinks well, cut transport emissions, and use less plastic. With proper recycling, especially in Europe, they support waste reduction and a circular, more sustainable economy.

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What is a biological cycle?

The biological cycle recycles natural materials like plants and food waste through decomposition, enriching soil and supporting life. Composting is key, reducing waste and boosting sustainability.

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What is a bonus/malus model?

The Bonus/Malus Model rewards eco-friendly actions like recycling and penalizes pollution, making sustainability a smart choice. It helps reduce waste, boost recycling, and support a cleaner planet.

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What is a book-and-claim system?

A Book-and-Claim System lets companies support recycled or renewable products by buying certificates, showing they fund green production even if the exact product isn’t physically traced.

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What is a brand owner?

Brand owners control product design, materials, and packaging, driving eco-friendly choices that reduce waste, promote recycling, and support a circular economy for a healthier planet.

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What is a buy-back programme?

Buy-Back Programmes let you return used items for recycling or reuse, cutting waste and saving resources. They support a circular economy and often reward you with discounts or cash.

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What is a carbon footprint?

A carbon footprint measures the greenhouse gases we emit through daily actions. Reducing it by using clean energy, recycling, and smarter choices helps protect the planet and supports sustainability.

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What is a certificate of destruction?

A Certificate of Destruction proves items like electronics or vehicles were safely destroyed, preventing pollution and supporting recycling, legal compliance, and the circular economy.

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What is acidification potential?

Acidification potential measures how much sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides a product or activity releases, causing acid rain that harms ecosystems, buildings, and air quality. Reducing it supports sustainability.

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What is a circular business model?

A circular business model reduces waste by designing lasting, repairable products, recycling materials, sharing items, and using waste as resources—saving money and protecting the environment.

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What is a circularity vehicle passport?

A Circularity Vehicle Passport tracks a car’s materials, parts, and history to boost reuse, recycling, and greener choices. It helps reduce waste and supports sustainable, circular car use.

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What is a circular supply chain?

A circular supply chain keeps materials moving by reusing, repairing, and recycling products, cutting waste and saving resources. It’s a smart way to protect nature and build a sustainable future.

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What is a clearing house (EPR)?

A Clearing House in EPR coordinates producers, recyclers, and authorities, managing data and payments to boost recycling, reduce waste, and support a fair, efficient circular economy.

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What is a closed-loop system?

A closed-loop system keeps materials in use by recycling, reusing, and repurposing, reducing waste and saving resources. It supports sustainability and a healthier planet for everyone.

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What is a codend?

A codend is the net’s end where fish gather; its design helps protect young fish, reduce waste, and supports sustainable fishing by allowing selective catch and better materials use.

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What is a collection system (PPWR definition)?

The PPWR collection system gathers used packaging from consumers to ensure proper recycling or reuse, cutting waste and boosting a circular economy with high-quality, accessible recycling by 2030.

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What is a competent authority?

A Competent Authority is a trusted official or organization that enforces environmental laws, issues permits, promotes recycling, and ensures sustainable use of resources to protect nature.

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What is a compliance certificate?

A Compliance Certificate proves products meet environmental rules, promoting recycling and reducing waste. It helps companies sell responsibly and guides consumers to eco-friendly choices.

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What is a compliance fee (UK)?

In the UK, compliance fees ensure businesses manage waste and meet environmental rules, funding recycling and waste systems while encouraging responsible practices under EPR and other regulations.

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What is a compliance scheme?

A Compliance Scheme helps businesses manage waste laws by organizing recycling and disposal together, making it easier, cheaper, and promoting a circular economy for a greener future.

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