The Consumer Goods Forum’s vision of EPR for liquid packaging cartons
Published: 01 Apr 2026
Author: Precedence Research
On March 12, 2026, the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF), through its Plastic Waste Coalition of Action, has released a new report outlining both the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing extended producer responsibility (EPR) systems for liquid packaging cartons. The report specifically focuses on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), offering material-specific recommendations to strengthen recycling systems and improve sustainability outcomes.
Liquid packaging cartons play a critical role in preserving products such as dairy, juices, nectars, and plant-based beverages, particularly in regions with limited cold-chain infrastructure. These cartons are typically composed of approximately 75% paper, allowing for the recovery of high-quality fibers when effectively recycled. However, their multi-layer structure often including polymer and aluminum components poses significant recycling challenges, especially in markets with underdeveloped waste management infrastructure.
The Coalition’s analysis, supported by case studies from countries including India, South Africa, Vietnam, Chile, and China, identifies three major barriers to effective carton recycling under EPR frameworks. Firstly, inadequate policy measures often result in improper categorization of cartons, unrealistic recycling targets, or their exclusion from EPR schemes altogether. Secondly, inconsistencies in recycling pathways create an uneven playing field, with some systems recognizing only certain components of the cartons during processing and reporting. Thirdly, existing EPR fee structures frequently fail to cover the full costs associated with collection, sorting, and recycling, limiting investment in carton-specific infrastructure.
To address these issues, the report proposes a set of guiding principles for policymakers and producer responsibility organizations (PROs). Key recommendations include establishing a dedicated category for liquid packaging cartons preferably under paper-based materials ensuring their acceptance across national recycling systems, and setting achievable collection and recycling targets aligned with existing infrastructure capabilities. The Coalition also emphasizes the importance of long-term strategies such as multi-year contracts and end-market development to support infrastructure growth.
Additionally, the report highlights the need for EPR fees to reflect the true cost of managing the entire carton structure, with funds specifically allocated to enhance collection and recycling systems. A more harmonized and practical approach, the Coalition suggests, will enable better integration of cartons into broader EPR frameworks while accounting for material-specific challenges.
The report also notes advancements in sustainable packaging innovation. Tetra Pak, in collaboration with Spanish beverage producer García Carrión, has introduced cartons featuring paper-based barrier technology, increasing paper content to up to 80% and renewable material content to 92%. Furthermore, Tetra Pak has announced a €60 million investment in a pilot facility to advance this technology.
The Coalition underscores that with the expansion of EPR systems globally, inclusive and well-structured approaches will be essential to achieving scalable and effective recycling solutions across all packaging materials.
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