In line with the ‘polluter-pays' principle, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) make producers responsible for the entire life cycle of products.
The EPR Schemes are part of the SUP Directive and varie from country to country.
For producers of fishing gear containing plastics it means that they must cover costs related to waste management, litter cleanup and awareness-raising measures.
The directive does not determine the amount to be paid by the producers of recreational fishing gear. This is left to the states to decide individually, implying that the schemes will be different in each country.
All the national EPR schemes must come into force by the end of 2024 at the latest.
To be prepared and minimise potential EPR costs EFTTA recommands producers of tackle gear:
to check the EPR schemes of the countries you are active in.
See the following example of the clear guidance that is used in Sweden.to shift to biodegradable plastics and rubber, if possible.
to support, or initiate, collection schemes like the ‘Anglers National Line Recycling Scheme’ www.anglers-nlrs.co.uk.
Furthermore, all packaging that is placed on the EU market needs to be designed for recyclability by 2030.
