How to avoid the most common data collection mistakes

If you're a packaging producer, accurate packaging data isn’t optional - it’s essential. But why does data quality matter, and how can you steer clear of the risks that come with inaccurate data?
Accurate data gives you clearer insight, more stable forecasts, and peace of mind. So naturally, every company must be prioritising high-quality packaging data, right? Not always.
We spoke with Stuart Woodham, our experienced compliance Auditor, about the common mistakes he’s seen producers make when collecting packaging data – and his advice on how to avoid them.
Q: Why is quality packaging data essential?
A: The quality of your raw data directly impacts the reliability of your Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) costs (including Packaging Recovery Notes and waste management fees). Get the data right and you can better ensure long term budget consistency. Trust me, your budget holders will thank you.
But accuracy isn’t just a best practice - it’s also a legal requirement. Under EPR regulation 45, producers must provide raw data to their compliance scheme that’s as accurate as reasonably possible. It’s a high standard that regulators like the Environment Agency expect you to meet in an audit.
Good quality data also supports better sustainability reporting, helps you track progress on plastic reduction targets, and informs project planning.
Q: What are the top data collection mistakes that you’ve encountered?
A: The most common mistakes I see can be broken down into three areas:
Number one: Taking a piecemeal approach to gathering data
EPR is complex. When layered with intricate supply chains and complex business structures, gathering accurate data becomes a major challenge for producers. As a result, it isn’t uncommon for producers to resort to approaching data collection in a fragmented or ad hoc manner; reacting as deficiencies are unearthed by chance.
This approach often leads to inconsistencies, duplication, and gaps in data. Packaging may even be misclassified into unnecessarily costly EPR reporting categories - needlessly driving costs up.
Understandably, a piecemeal approach to compliance will feel easier to manage in the immediacy. However, systematically considering each compliance obligation will drive a consistent method of data collection, which should improve its completeness and accuracy, leading to more reliable EPR budget forecasts.
Number two: Not knowing where your data comes from
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