The trend of extended producer responsibility laws aimed at reducing packaging waste – single-use-plastics in particular – continues apace. These laws, enacted so far in six states, place the responsibility for the end-of-life processing of their products on the companies that produce, import or sell those products, rather than relying on consumers and local jurisdictions to do the recycling.

The next packaging EPR deadline, in Oregon, is fast approaching. According to Circular Action Alliance, currently the only active producer responsibility organization in the U.S. for packaging: “Brands, manufacturers and other companies that qualify as producers of printed paper, food serviceware and packaging under Oregon’s Extended Producer Responsibility law must report to CAA by the state’s March 31, 2025 deadline.” Oregon’s EPR program implementation will start on July 1.

ICYMI: How Will New Packaging EPR Laws In 5 States Affect Promo?

Start by reaching out to CAA. This organization tracks EPR laws and assists producers with understanding their obligations and the collection and recycling or disposal of discarded products and waste. The next CAA webinar, scheduled for Thursday, March 6, at noon Eastern, will outline key aspects and insights, including:

  • Relevant timelines, producer requirements and covered materials.
  • Strategies for maintaining compliance.
  • Practical guidance on engaging a service provider, working with your supply chain and innovating your packaging to be more sustainable and affordable.

Register for the March 6 session here.

RELATED: Packaging EPR: What Promo Firms Need To Know To Get Started

So far, six U.S. states have enacted EPR laws for packaging materials: California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota and Oregon. NOTE: These laws apply to anyone doing business in these states, even if it’s just fulfilling an e-commerce order.

Illinois is conducting a needs assessment, due in December 2025, and legislation has been introduced in more than a dozen others. (While EPR has been discussed at the federal level, no bills have been put forward.)

Circular Action Alliance has been confirmed as the producer responsibility organization in California, Colorado, Oregon, Maryland and Minnesota so far.

“Over the past three years we have been building tools, processes, plans and a strong team to implement packaging EPR programs in California, Colorado and Oregon,” said Jeff Fielkow, CEO for CAA in a statement. “This work enables us to immediately find efficiencies for producers in Minnesota and scale best practices so we can reduce waste and recycle more in the state and across the country.”

Sign up for CAA’s Quarterly Update webinar on March 18 for updates on the Colorado program plan, Oregon program implementation, upcoming producer deadlines and the status of EPR implementation across states. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A.

For questions or suggestions on regulatory or government affairs issues, please contact Rachel Zoch at RachelZ@ppai.org.