Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s a way of life. With packaging waste contributing to almost 40% of plastic pollution globally in 2022, it’s no surprise that governments and consumers alike are demanding more eco-friendly solutions.
That’s where Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) packaging laws come in. In 2024, many regions, especially in the European Union, Canada, and parts of the U.S., are seeing stricter EPR regulations.
Quick Definition: EPR for packaging means that companies are responsible for managing their packaging after it’s used. This encourages them to make packaging that’s easier to recycle and less harmful to the environment.
In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of EPR packaging laws, what they mean for your brand, and how you can get ahead of the game.
What Are EPR Laws?
EPR stands for extended producer responsibility. This serie of laws are designed to make producers responsible for the entire lifecycle of their packaging. Instead of leaving waste management to local governments and the cost to taxpayers, EPR laws shift the responsibility to obligated producers.
That means you, as a brand, are accountable for managing and recycling the packaging your products come in—long after they’ve been sold.
The goal is to encourage brands to rethink packaging design—making it more recyclable and reducing overall waste.
With EPR, we move towards a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled rather than thrown away.
What Is the Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging?
When it comes to packaging, your responsibility as a producer doesn’t end when the product is sold. EPR laws mean you need to take full responsibility for your packaging throughout its lifecycle. That includes paying for the costs of collection, recycling, and even the disposal of packaging waste.
EPR laws impose fees on producers based on the amount and type of packaging they introduce into a market. The more packaging used, and the less sustainable it is, the higher the fees producers must pay.
In the European Union, every member country requires brands to manage their packaging waste. For example, in countries like France, producers contribute to a national recycling fund that supports waste management programs. Similarly, Germany’s VerpackG law makes it mandatory for packaging to be recyclable or reusable.
EPR for Plastic Packaging
Extended producer responsibility program plastic packaing is the first to pay attention to, especially single-use plastic. California’s Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54) is focus on reducing packaging and packaging waste.
Here are some of the key trends in 2024:
- Mandatory Recycled Content: More regions are requiring businesses to include recycled materials in their packaging. This helps close the loop on recycling and reduces the demand for new plastic production.
- Bans on Non-Recyclable Plastics: Some areas are banning certain types of non-recyclable plastics, like items that can’t be processed by local recycling facilities.
- Fee Changes: With these new epr rules, businesses using non-recyclable packaging will face higher fees, while those using recyclable or sustainable materials will pay less. .
For brands using plastic packaging, it’s essential to start planning now. Review your packaging, make sure it’s recyclable, and consider switching to more sustainable options, like paper packaging.
EPR for Paper Packaging
Paper and cardboard are also facing stricter EPR regulations in 2024. Governments are pushing for businesses to use more sustainable paper sources:
- Sustainable Paper Sources: Many regions are encouraging use FSC-certified paper ( Forest Stewardship Organization) or other sustainable sources.
- Recyclability: Paper packaging needs to be 100% recyclable. This means avoiding coatings or treatments that could interfere with recycling, like certain laminates or inks that can’t be processed.
- Reducing Environmental Impact: The focus is also on reducing the overall environmental impact of paper packaging. This includes using less packaging and exploring alternatives to traditional paper-based products.
4 EPR Guidelines You should know
EPR laws vary by region, but they typically have a few key elements that every producer should be aware of:
Recycling Infrastructure: Producers need to support or invest in the development of recycling systems. This could mean contributing to community recycling programs or setting up your own take-back systems.
Data Reporting: Many regions require producers to report the amount and type of packaging they produce, as well as how much is recycled.
Material Requirements: Some EPR laws mandate that packaging must be made from recyclable or biodegradable materials.
Financial Contributions: Producers are often required to contribute fees to fund recycling efforts, with fees tied to the amount or type of packaging produced.
These guidelines ensure that producers don’t just “talk the talk” but also “walk the walk” when it comes to reducing packaging waste and promoting sustainability.
How Does EPR Work ?
EPR laws focus on key areas that help brands cut down on waste and promote recycling. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most important parts:
Collection and Recycling Systems:
Countries like Norway have set up Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) that make it easy for people to return packaging. For example, Norway has an impressive 85% return rate for plastic bottles.
Packaging Design:
EPR encourages brands to design packaging that’s not just functional but also recyclable. In Sweden, for instance, the law requires packaging to be made from recyclable or reusable materials.
Financial Contributions
As a producer, you may need to contribute to a recycling system based on the type and amount of packaging you use. In Canada, producers pay fees based on how recyclable their materials are.
What Brands should do for EPR Program?
With EPR, failing to adapt your packaging strategy could result in higher fees. The best time to start thinking about it is now—because once the rules are in place, you’ll be charged based on your packaging choices. Here’s how you can get ready:
Check Your Packaging Materials
Take a close look at your packaging. Is it recyclable? Are you using sustainable materials? If not, it might be time to make some changes. Ditch single-use plastic and reduce enviromental impact.
Audit Your Packaging Size
Pay attention to the size of your packaging and any additional components like stickers. Packaging is often graded based on size, and this could impact the fees you pay. The more efficient and minimal you are, the lower fees you need to pay.
Stay Updated on Regulations
EPR laws are always changing. It’s important to stay informed about new regulations in your region and adjust your practices accordingly. Keeping up now will help you avoid surprise costs later.
Collaborate with Recycling Programs
Partner with local recycling programs to make sure your packaging is properly collected and recycled. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to get involved. This ensures your packaging has a second life.
In the Long Run, Brands Should Aim to:
Design for Sustainability
Shift towards reusable, biodegradable, or compostable packaging materials that align with EPR goals. This not only meets sustainability demands but also reduces your environmental footprint.
Invest in Recycling Solutions
Support or create programs that help improve local recycling infrastructure. Investing in these solutions now can make a big difference in the future, ensuring that your products are responsibly recycled and reused.
By taking these steps now, you’ll be better positioned for a sustainable future while ensuring your packaging strategy is in line with growing environmental and regulatory standards.
Packaging EPR Laws in the U.S.
In the United States, EPR laws aren’t yet nationwide, but several states are already leading the way. States like California, Maine, and Oregon have implemented laws that focus on reducing plastic waste and increasing recycling rates.
For instance, California’s EPR law requires producers to help fund the state’s recycling program and meet certain recycling targets for packaging. Maine has a similar law that makes producers responsible for funding the collection and recycling of packaging waste.
If you operate in the U.S., staying up-to-date on state-level EPR laws is crucial. As more states pass their own laws, brands will need to adapt quickly.
Wrap it up
As EPR regulations continue to shape the packaging landscape, it’s crucial for brands to act now.
Start by reviewing your materials, checking your packaging size, and staying up to date on the rules. Working with recycling programs can also help you avoid extra fees.
At WITPAX, we specialize in sustainable packaging. We can help you meet EPR requirements while reducing waste. Our team works with you to create packaging that’s both eco-friendly and premium.
We know how important it is to maintain your brand’s high standards. Our goal is to help you balance sustainability with luxury.
Ready to make the change?
Contact us today. We’ll help you reduce waste and keep your packaging in line with the latest regulations. Let’s work together for a more sustainable future.