EPR in the Netherlands (UPV Explained)

The Netherlands applies Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) under the regulatory framework known as UPV (Uitgebreide Producentenverantwoordelijkheid). Under UPV, producers are responsible for the waste, collection, and recycling of their products after use. Any company placing regulated goods on the Dutch market like distributors, retailers, manufacturers, importers, or ecommerce must meet these mandatory requirements.

What Is EPR (UPV) in the Netherlands?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy model that shifts the environmental impact of products back to the producers. In the Netherlands, this model is called Uitgebreide Producentenverantwoordelijkheid (UPV), which is the literal translation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). It ensures companies take responsibility from product design and material choices all the way to collection, reporting, and recycling at end of life.

This system mirrors EU-wide directives, ensuring consistency with European sustainability goals like the Green Deal. By enforcing UPV, the Dutch government aims to primarily fund waste disposal, but also reduce waste, improve recycling rates, and encourage more sustainable production choices across regulated sectors.

What Are Your Obligations as a Producer?

Registration Requirements

Before placing regulated products on the Dutch market, producers must complete a UPV registration. Depending on the product category, companies may register directly with authorities or through a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO). For many categories, in the Netherlands there’s an Algemeen Verbindend Verklaring (AVV), which is a mandatory PRO to join. The PRO operating under an AVV is responsible for achieving the EPR targets for a specific EPR category. However, even when working with a PRO or AVV, companies remain responsible for accurate product and material data, which tools like ForSURE’s EPR reporting software help consolidate.

Reporting & Payments

Producers must regularly report quantities of products placed on the Dutch market. Reports often include the weight of materials, the number of units sold, and in some cases, details about collected or returned items. Most reports follow an annual cycle, though some categories require more frequent submissions. Fees are typically calculated based on weight or material type. Packaging producers, for example, must track detailed material compositions, and our EPR packaging compliance guide can support this process.

Collecting and Recycling

Dutch UPV rules also include obligations for collecting and recycling products. Many producers join collective recycling schemes also known as PROs, which coordinate national collection systems. These organisations handle the operational responsibilities, but companies must still provide complete and timely reporting data to demonstrate compliance.

Product Categories Covered under Dutch UPV

Dutch UPV legislation covers a broad set of product groups. Packaging, textiles, batteries, and electronic devices (AEEA/WEEE) are among the most common categories. Additional categories, such as vehicles, tires, and mattresses, are included as well. However, companies selling across Europe should also understand requirements in other major markets such as EPR Germany. Importers can reference the dedicated page on EPR for importers for clarification across borders.

Challenges in UPV Compliance

Staying compliant with Dutch UPV rules can be challenging, especially for companies operating across multiple markets. Regulations are detailed and often changed, which can make interpretation difficult. Each product category has its own set of rules, deadlines, and reporting criteria. Manual reporting introduces risks, including data inconsistencies, missed deadlines, and potential penalties. Companies in electronics and batteries must also consider parallel obligations such as WEEE registration in Germany.

How ForSURE Helps You Stay Compliant

ForSURE simplifies UPV compliance by bringing your reporting duties, deadlines, and analytics into one central platform. You can track requirements for each product category, receive alerts when reporting deadlines approach, and store all historical submissions in one place. This reduces manual effort and helps ensure that your data remains accurate, consistent, and audit-ready. For a complete overview of capabilities, visit the main EPR software page or book a demo.