In the recent discussion at Packaging Europe podcast (February 2026), Jean Hornain (CEO at ITEO) and Hester Klein Lankhorst (President of EXPRA) explored how Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is reshaping the future of packaging and waste management across Europe.
Their conversation reflects a broader shift: EPR is no longer just a regulatory requirement but a strategic lever for accelerating the circular economy. A central theme of the discussion was collaboration. With packaging supply chains operating across borders, both speakers stressed that national approaches alone are no longer sufficient. The recent move by CITEO to join EXPRAsignals a growing recognition that harmonized systems and shared best practices are essential for scaling impact across Europe.
Another key insight focused on recycling performance. The speakers rejected the idea of choosing between source separation and post-separation technologies, arguing instead for a hybrid approach. While consumer participation in sorting remains critical, advances in sorting infrastructure, such as AI-driven and optical systems, are increasingly necessary to ensure consistent, high-quality material streams that can re-enter the economy.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of economic instruments. Fee modulation, for example, is emerging as a powerful tool to incentivize better packaging design by linking costs to recyclability and environmental impact. In parallel, initiatives like Verpact’s Deltaplan for Circular Plastic Packaging demonstrate how national strategies can bridge the gap between policy ambition and operational reality, aligning stakeholders across the value chain.
Looking ahead, both leaders emphasized that the success of EPR will depend on its ability to evolve. This includes improving transparency, strengthening governance, and ensuring that systems remain adaptable to new materials, technologies, and regulatory frameworks. Ultimately, their message was clear: only through coordinated European action, supported by practical tools and innovation, can EPR fully deliver on its promise as a driver of circularity.