Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in France is a legal framework that holds producers, importers, and sellers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products
What is EPR in France?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in France is a legal framework that holds producers, importers, and sellers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, including waste management and recycling. This regulation particularly impacts e-commerce businesses selling packaged goods to French consumers, ensuring they contribute to sustainable waste disposal.
Who Needs to Comply?
If you sell or distribute packaged goods in France—whether as a manufacturer, importer, or online retailer—you must comply with EPR regulations. This applies to businesses selling directly through their own websites or via online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
Key EPR Regulations in France
1. Packaging Waste (CITEO Registration)
- Any business placing packaged goods on the French market must register with CITEO (https://www.citeo.com/).
- Businesses must contribute to a waste management scheme and ensure proper recycling of their packaging.
- Packaging must include the Triman logo to indicate proper disposal.
2. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
- Businesses selling electronic products must register with ecosystem (https://www.ecosystem.eco/).
- Producers must arrange for the collection and recycling of end-of-life electronic products.
3. Battery Waste (COREPILE or SCRELEC Registration)
- Sellers of batteries or products containing batteries must register under the BattG framework with Corepile (https://www.corepile.fr/) or Screlec (https://www.screlec.fr/).
- Proper collection and disposal of batteries are required.
Steps to Ensure Compliance
1. Register with the Relevant Authorities
- Packaging: Register with CITEO (https://www.citeo.com/).
- Electronics: Register with ecosystem (https://www.ecosystem.eco/).
- Batteries: Register under Corepile (https://www.corepile.fr/) or Screlec (https://www.screlec.fr/).
2. Report Packaging Data Annually
- Declare the amount and type of packaging used each year.
- Submit accurate data to the compliance schemes.
3. Obtain a Packaging Waste License
- Contribute to an accredited waste management organisation like CITEO to fulfil obligations.
4. Display Registration Numbers
- Online marketplaces like Amazon require proof of EPR registration before allowing sales.
5. Maintain Compliance Records
- Keep detailed records of packaging, electronic waste, and battery disposal compliance for audits.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with French EPR regulations can result in:
- Fines of up to €100,000 per violation.
- Sales bans on marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
- Legal action from French authorities.
How EAS Assists with French EPR Compliance
While EAS does not provide EPR compliance solutions, we offer guidance and support to help businesses navigate their obligations under French EPR regulations. Our expertise ensures you understand the requirements and find the right compliance partners.
Need Assistance?
For more details on French EPR compliance, visit our [Help Centre](https://help.easproject.com/) or contact our support team for expert guidance.