Why you should become a member of Petco
Why should companies care?
When it comes to packaging, many companies are concerned about waste management. Many have set voluntary targets, but establishing reliable collection and recycling systems is costly. Enter Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) – a collective tool. By contributing collectively, companies unlock the benefits of scale, enabling organisations like Petco to act on their behalf. EPR not only levels the playing field but allows companies to actively shape waste management systems, propelling South Africa toward a circular economy. Leverage EPR as a strategic tool to fulfil obligations and foster positive change for a sustainable future.
What is a producer of packaging?
Petco’s view is that, for packaging, the producer should be either the brand owner of products using the packaging, the retailer in the case of house brands, or the importer of goods contained in packaging.
In terms of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations as read with the Packaging Notice, a Producer is any person or category of persons, including a Brand Owner, who is engaged in the commercial manufacture, conversion, refurbishment (where applicable) or import of new or used identified products. In the packaging sector, the definition applies to a producer who places in excess of 10 tonnes of identified products onto the market on an annual basis, and extends to:
(i) the paper, packaging and single use product manufacturer, converter and/or the brand owner where the brand owner operates an enterprise in South Africa;
(ii) the licensed agent of the branded goods, or where no official agency agreement may be in place, the importer of the branded goods as depicted on the Bill of Lading, in the instance where the brand owner is not domiciled in South Africa; and
(iii) in case of all other identified products not covered (i) and (ii) the producer shall be the Retailer.
When is your company responsible?
According to legislation, your company becomes responsible for EPR if you manufacture or convert and sell more than 10 tonnes of identified product (as per the DFFE’s categories of identified products) on the South African market per year. You have a mandatory obligation to declare your tonnages and pay the EPR fee on those products.
How do you benefit from being a member of Petco?
We are a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) with a proven track record
Since 2005, we have grown collection and recycling rates.
We’re data driven
Our systems and processes streamline complex reporting and provide us with up-to-date member data that informs accurate target-setting.
Comply with EPR regulations
The National Environment Management: Waste Act makes Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) a legal requirement for producers. We help our members meet legislated and corporate targets.
We provide administrative support
We assume part of your administrative responsibility. Joining Petco means you do not have to create your own EPR scheme and report back to government for the identified products you have registered with us.
We’re transparent, audited and accurate
Member EPR fees are calculated on transparent plans that are a reflection of costs applicable for a robust EPR scheme. All EPR fees are audited periodically to support accuracy.
We are EPR specialists
As the longest standing PRO in South Africa, we are knowledgeable and experienced, and readily accessible to guide you on this journey.
We offer added corporate value
Our member-focused approach supports engagement and strategy development toward corporate sustainability goals.
Enjoy a direct line to Petco expertise
Your membership gives you direct access to the Petco team for any advice or assistance you need. We have broad and in-depth expertise and access to cutting-edge information.
We’ll help you turn sales reports into packaging reports
Petco’s declaration methodology is in line with international best practice, enabling the development of robust packaging footprint reports.
Contribute to waste picker integration
A key objective is the integration of waste pickers into the post-consumer collection value chain. By partnering with Petco, members can support the economic integration of SMMEs and waste pickers, and contribute to a more just and inclusive collection and recycling ecosystem.
We’re affiliated internationally
We work with international specialists to guarantee professional, balanced and expert execution of services related to meeting members’ EPR obligations.
Enjoy networking at Petco engagements
Petco is built on a network of members who represent a variety of sectors. You’ll get the opportunity to meet and exchange information with a range of professionals.
We’re ethical
Petco adheres to ethical standards, maintains transparency in governance, and continues to work for the benefit of society and the environment.
We have Level 4 B-BBEE status
Petco is committed to transformation and has Level 4 B-BBEE status with 100% procurement recognition, as measured on the adjusted scorecard.
How much does it cost?
An Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fee is the amount paid by a producer to the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO), or system operator, to collectively carry out the producers’ responsibilities. Petco’s fees are collected on identified products for the various packaging materials for which we administer EPR schemes.
How can you fulfil your legal obligations?
Petco’s primary responsibility is to our members. We see them as clients to whom we offer services. It is imperative for us to remain compliant with the regulations on behalf of our members and the products for which we administer EPR schemes. So, by undertaking your EPR, and with your active support and participation, we’ll ensure that you operate with compliance.
But our work does not stop there. Petco goes beyond policy, working with you to drive the adoption of a circular economy so critical to a sustainable future. With Petco at your side – an established leader in producer responsibility in South Africa¬ – your company can be compliant and contribute to a better, brighter and more responsible future for all.
Join Petco
We take Extended Producer Responsibility on behalf of our members on a collective basis, helping them to meet legislated and corporate targets. We go beyond policy, creating real value and leading the way to a circular economy.