The Brits are doing their best to recycle. They have a system called that uses something called a Packaging Recovery Note (PRN). Basically the government sets a target goal for recycling in various industries. Companies can either meet these goals, or purchase Package Recovery Notes, much like a cap and trade system but for recycling. Companies that do a very good job of recycling can sell the extra notes for a profit.

The table above shows what each industry needs to meet for the next couple of years. To learn more about the PRN system read this (pdf).

The good thing about this is it encourages companies to recycle, but it also encourages them to make less packaging. Less packaging means less to recycle, or less PRN’s to buy.

Corus Steel Packaging Recycling, has launched its 2006 annual PRN report (pdf), highlighting the significant achievements that have been made thanks to Corus’ investment of PRNs (Packaging Recovery Notes). Steel packaging recycling rates in the UK were at record levels last year at 57.3 percent.

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