Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Spain is a legal framework that holds producers, importers, and sellers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products.
What is EPR in Spain?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Spain 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 Spanish consumers, ensuring they contribute to sustainable waste disposal.
Who Needs to Comply?
If you sell or distribute packaged goods in Spain—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 Spain
1. Packaging Waste (ECOEMBES Registration)
Any business placing packaged goods on the Spanish market must register with ECOEMBES (https://www.ecoembes.com/).
Businesses must contribute to a waste management scheme and ensure proper recycling of their packaging.
Packaging must be labelled according to Spanish regulations.
2. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
Businesses selling electronic products must register with Oficina de Registro de Productores de AEE.
Producers must arrange for the collection and recycling of end-of-life electronic products.
3. Battery Waste (ECOEMBES or ECOPILAS Registration)
Sellers of batteries or products containing batteries must register under ECOEMBES (https://www.ecoembes.com/) or ECOPILAS (https://www.ecopilas.es/).
Proper collection and disposal of batteries are required.
Steps to Ensure Compliance
1. Register with the Relevant Authorities
Packaging: Register with ECOEMBES (https://www.ecoembes.com/).
Electronics: Register with Oficina de Registro de Productores de AEE (https://www.miteco.gob.es/es/calidad-y-evaluacion-ambiental/temas/productos-y-residuos/registro-productores-aee.aspx).
Batteries: Register under ECOEMBES (https://www.ecoembes.com/) or ECOPILAS (https://www.ecopilas.es/).
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 ECOEMBES to fulfil obligations.
- Fees depend on the type and volume of packaging introduced into the market. Costs can range from a few hundred euros annually for small sellers to thousands for high-volume distributors.
- Check with ECOEMBES for exact fee structures based on your business size and packaging usage.
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 Spanish EPR regulations can result in:
- Fines of up to €100,000 per violation.
- Sales bans on marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
- Legal action from Spanish authorities.
How EAS Assists with Spanish EPR Compliance
While EAS does not provide EPR compliance solutions, we offer guidance and support to help businesses navigate their obligations under Spanish EPR regulations. Our expertise ensures you understand the requirements and find the right compliance partners.
Need Assistance?
For more details on Spanish EPR compliance, visit our Help Centre or contact our support team for expert guidance.