In 2026, the EPR declaration EPR professional packaging will become a reality for all companies that place products on the French market. Between the regulatory entry into force in January and the first eco-contributions due on July 1, the schedule is tight and requires methodical preparation.

Below you will find a comprehensive guide on when to take action, how to organize your first EPR declaration, and how to ensure your compliance without stress.

When and how to file your EPR declaration EPR The 2026 calendar you won't want to miss.

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Understanding the EPR declaration in 2026

Extended Producer Responsibility EPR ) requires all companies that place products on the French market to finance and organize the end-of-life management of their packaging. The new Scheme professional packaging" Scheme — EPR —extends this responsibility to packaging that has been less regulated until now.

EPR longer applies solely to consumer packaging; it now covers packaging used between professionals: drums, cans, buckets, crates, grouping films, pallets, covers, bags, big bags, etc. Any entity—manufacturer, importer, or distributor affixing its brand—that places this packaging on the French market is considered a producer.

The declaration has two objectives: to collect data (tonnages, materials, types) and to serve as a basis for calculating eco-contributions paid to an eco-organization or under an individual system. For the restaurant industry, a transitional period applies: the old system will remain in place until June 30, 2026, then switch to the new Scheme July 1.

2026 calendar to remember

January 1, 2026: regulatory effective date

The decree establishing the scope, definition of producers, and main obligations is applicable. However, no contributions are due before July.

Until February 28, 2026: submission of applications for approval

Eco-organizations must apply for approval before this date. Your choice of membership will depend on the list published subsequently in the Official Journal.

January 1 – June 30, 2026: transitional period for restoration

Food service packaging continues to be reported under the old system. Separate your data between the first and second half of the year now to avoid any confusion later on.

July 1, 2026: Start of operational obligations

As of this date:

– No contribution is due for packaging placed on the market before July 1. – The first eco-contributions apply to all professional packaging (sale, grouping, transport, primary production). – You must have joined an eco-organization or set up an individual system and submit your forecasts for July-December 2026.

January–February 2027: first actual tax return

You then declare the tonnages placed on the market between July and December 2026. The eco-organization forwards the data to ADEME before the end of May and adjusts your contributions if necessary.

Implement your EPR declaration

1. Identify your producer status

You are affected if you design, import, or distribute packaged products intended for professionals under your brand name, regardless of your sector or size.

2. Map your packaging

List the material, function (sale, grouping, transport, primary production), and annual volumes. This data will be used for your 2026 forecasts and then your 2027 declaration.

3. Choose and join an eco-organization

Once the approvals have been published, compare the rates, reporting tools, and support offered. Upon joining, submit your forecasts for July-December 2026.

4. Establish a data collection process

Appoint an EPR representative, define data sources, document your assumptions, and update your information systems to track packaging placed on the French market.

5. Submit your first tax return and prepare for audits

In January-February 2027, submit your declaration via your eco-organization's portal. Keep supporting documents and methodologies; respond to any requests for clarification from the organization or the administration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the EPR for professional EPR apply to all sizes of businesses?

Yes. There may be thresholds for exemption, but the obligation in principle applies to any company placing professional packaging on the French market.

Do I have to pay for packaging placed on the market before July 2026?

No. The contributions only apply to packaging placed on the market from July 1, 2026.

What happens if I haven't joined before July 2026?

You run the risk of non-compliance and financial penalties. Get organized in the first half of 2026 to choose your eco-organization.

How will food packaging be managed in 2026?

First half of the year: old system. From July 1: new Scheme. Clearly separate your data in your systems.

EPR the EPR declaration just an administrative requirement?

No. Good data structuring allows you to target reductions at source, optimize eco-contribution costs, and strengthen your environmental commitments.

Get ready now

Three pillars for a calm declaration:

– Understand your status and the scope of your packaging. – Anticipate joining an eco-organization and sending your July-December 2026 forecasts. – Structure your data collection processes for actual reporting in early 2027.

By getting organized today, you can turn this regulatory obligation into an opportunity to better manage your packaging flows and your impact. For more information, see our guide on the steps to EPR compliance. To ensure your approach is secure, you can also discover our EPR solutions.