Multiple states have enacted extended producer responsibility laws to shift the financial responsibility for end-of-life costs associated with single-use packaging and paper waste onto the companies that produce and put those materials on the market. Under these state EPR laws, producers of products using such packaging/paper must:
• Register with an organization responsible for implementing these laws.
• Comply with initial and ongoing registration and reporting requirements.
• Pay regular fees for the administration/implementation of packaging EPR programs.
• Achieve published targets for the recycling content/rates or material composition of single-use packaging and paper waste.
Naturally, the quickly evolving obligations have created confusion for PPAI members. Working with leading sustainability compliance law firm Taft, the Association in October 2025 produced the white paper below with important information about these laws.
For further industry-specific guidance, view our on-demand packaging EPR compliance webinar.