Slovakia: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging
In Slovakia, the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations commenced in 2016, initially focusing on sorted packaging waste. Subsequently, Act No. 302/2019 Coll. has significantly expanded and refined the responsibilities and obligations outlined in the Waste Act, with a specific emphasis on Single-use Beverage Packaging.
Who is considered responsible?
The Packaging Act and the regulations apply to all:
- Manufacturer;
- Distributors;
- Imports products;
- Packs or fills products.
What do you mean by packaging?
- Glass;
- Metals Aluminium;
- Plastics and Plastics PET;
- Paper and Cardboard;
- Composite beverage carton;
- Metals steel;
- Wood.
Thresholds
Regarding the prerequisite for system involvement, there is no set minimum; all producers and sellers must register.
Producers’ Obligations for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Slovakia
- The producer has to record with the National Register of Obliged Parties with the assistance of the Ministry of Environment to receive the registration (EPR) number.
- The producers or distributors must have contracts for take-back schemes and should have a minimum contract period of 2 years with Eco-operators.
- The producers are required to make eco-contributions in the amount established by the government.
- A quarterly report must be submitted, even a zero report with the amounts of packaging
Authorized representative
The Slovak and foreign producers must nominate an authorized representative based in Slovakia to register the packaging law requirements on behalf of the producer, and the agreement is granted for at least one year.
Deadline Reporting
The possibility to submit by the 15th day of the preceding month.
Fines or punishment
Following the new requirement of January 2021, the producer who does not fulfill the obligation or submits the incorrect quantities, the charges can range from 4.000 € to 350.000 €.