EPR glossary
A working vocabulary for commercial and operational EPR discussions. National law can define the same term differently, so country-specific sources take precedence.
Last reviewed: 27 September 2026
Core terms
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach under which producers can receive financial or organisational responsibility for the post-use stage of products.
- Producer: the person identified by applicable rules as responsible; not necessarily the physical manufacturer.
- Placing on the market: first making a product available on a defined market; the precise legal test is jurisdiction-specific.
- EPR stream: a product or material category such as packaging, batteries, EEE/WEEE or textiles.
Operational terms
These terms describe workflow, not a legal result.
- Register: an official or designated system that records producers.
- PRO or scheme: an organisation through which collective obligations may be performed.
- Reporting period: the time window covered by a declaration.
- Evidence: registration confirmations, contracts, reports, receipts, submission proofs and acceptance messages.
Roles that must not be conflated
A commercial operating role is not automatically a statutory appointment.
- Country Partner: an operational supplier supporting work in a market.
- Authorized Representative: a role created and appointed under applicable law where available or required.
- EPR Connect expert: reviews scope and data; does not replace an authority or local legal adviser.
Official sources
Information provided by EPR Connect does not constitute legal advice.