PackUK has today (1 July 2026) published the latest update to the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) after significant industry consultation. The next iteration, referred to as RAM 2027, is the framework producers must use to assess the recyclability of household packaging placed on the market in 2027 under the Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging (pEPR) scheme.
RAM assessment outcomes determine whether packaging is rated red, amber or green, influencing fee modulation and supporting the transition to a more circular packaging system.
Supporting clearer and more consistent assessments
RAM 2027 builds on version 1.1, published in April 2025, and reflects extensive engagement with industry, including producers, trade associations and technical specialists. The updated methodology responds directly to stakeholder feedback, with a focus on improving clarity, consistency and accessibility.
The changes, which include refinements to material rules, definitions, assessment guidance, structure and usability, are designed to give producers confidence in their assessments by reducing ambiguity and making it easier to apply the methodology in practice. RAM 2027 also strengthens the link between recyclability ratings and real?world recycling outcomes, ensuring assessments better reflect how packaging is managed across the full recycling process.
Driving better outcomes and packaging design
By aligning more closely with real?world system performance and embedding feedback from across the sector, RAM 2027 enables improved recyclability and encourages more sustainable packaging design. This will help deliver better outcomes for producers, wider industry and local authorities, while supporting progress towards a more circular economy.
In the coming years, the recently appointed Producer Responsibility Organisation, UK Packaging PRO, will play a significant role in shaping the ongoing development of the RAM and further guidance for producers.
What this means for producers
RAM 2027 applies to packaging supplied in 2027 and does not affect reporting for 2025 or 2026. Producers should therefore familiarise themselves with RAM 2027 ahead of the next reporting year but continue to use RAM version 1.1 for current reporting periods. It is vital that producers ensure they are referring to the correct version for each assessment.
- RAM 1.1 covers the reporting period 1 January to 31 December 2026, with the submission deadlines of 1 October 2026 (H1) and 1 April 2027 (H2).
- RAM 2027 covers the reporting period 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2027, with the submission deadlines of 1 October 2026 (H1) and 1 April 2028 (H2).
Further information
The RAM is designed to be updated annually to adapt to industry changes and developments, with RAM 2027 being the first update under the new annual update cycle set out in the RAM Roadmap. It provides early visibility of how the methodology will continue to develop over time, supporting ongoing collaboration and continuous improvement across the packaging system.
To read the full RAM 2027 methodology and guidance, visit: Assess packaging recyclability: recyclability assessment methodology (RAM) 2027 - GOV.UK