This report presents the key findings from a qualitative study aimed to understand the implications of implementing the three extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes (packaging, batteries and waste electrical and electronic equipment or WEEE) in the Scottish Highlands and Islands. The five Highlands and Islands local authorities (LAs) or the 'focus areas' of this study - Orkney Council, Shetland Council, Comhairle nan Eileen Siar (Western Isles Council), Argyll and Bute Council and the Highland Council - cover predominantly remote and very rural areas, in terms of their population density and accessibility. 1•2 This presents them with unique challenges and considerations in delivering an efficient waste service, which may be distinct to other rural and remote LAs in the UK. The key objectives of the research include: * A high-level assessment of the current waste management landscape in the focus areas, to understand the key considerations and challenges associated with LAprovided waste services. * Identifying which challenges are perceived as unique or greater compared to other UK LAs and why, as well as the commonalities and differences between the LAs in the focus areas. *Identifying the impacts from EPR implementation to understand key risks and opportunities to mitigate them, in order to develop a circular economy in the region. * Identifying cumulative impacts of other waste policies on focus area waste management services and how they may affect EPR implementation. Producer fees paid under the EPR schemes will be used to reimburse local authorities (LAs) to cover their costs for providing waste management services. These costs may vary based on the unique circumstances of the different LAs. This study identifies and reviews these unique challenges and resultant impacts as well as risks of EPR and other upcoming policy changes for the focus LAs. Based on these findings and stakeholder input, it explores the opportunities to deliver a just transition for LAs and the communities they serve, both in terms of the outcome and the process of implementing the schemes.3 A summary methodology and high-level findings of the research conducted between December 2023 and March 2024 are presented in following sections.