Oregon Launches First Statewide Extended Producer Responsibility Program for Packaging in the U.S.

According to an official announcement by Circular Action Alliance (CAA), the first-ever statewide Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for packaging and paper products in the United States has been formally launched in Oregon. CAA, the designated Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), is implementing this landmark initiative under Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA).

As reported by CAA, the program places financial and operational responsibility on producers for the packaging, printing and writing paper, and food serviceware they place on the Oregon market. The goal is to establish a more equitable, transparent, and efficient statewide recycling system.

“Oregonians have always taken recycling seriously, but until now, the system hasn’t always made it easy to do the right thing,” said Kim Holmes, Oregon Executive Director at CAA. “Oregon’s new EPR program aims to modernize and simplify recycling across the state. Over the next few years, Oregonians will have access to clearer information, more consistent services and a stronger recycling system that reduces waste and creates a stronger circular economy.”

According to the CAA website, the program introduces several key mechanisms to support its objectives:

Producer Registration and Reporting: All obligated producers must register with CAA and report brand and packaging material data via an online portal.

Eco-Modulated Fee Structure: Fees will be determined by the recyclability, weight, and environmental impact of packaging materials, incentivizing sustainable design.

Comprehensive Cost Coverage: Producer contributions will fund processing of recyclable materials, support local government costs, rural transport, educational outreach, and the development of a statewide recycling drop-off network.

Producer Support and Transparency: CAA will provide technical assistance for registration and reporting, while producers will have access to detailed performance data and cost allocations.

Jeff Fielkow, Chief Executive Officer of CAA, stated: “The launch of Oregon’s EPR program marks a historic step forward, empowering producers to lead the transition to a more circular system for packaging and paper.”

Looking ahead, the program aims to achieve significant milestones by the end of 2027, including expanding curbside recycling to over 150,000 additional households and businesses, deploying nearly 100 new collection trucks, and establishing more than 140 new drop-off sites across the state. It also plans to unify recycling guidelines under the Uniform Statewide Collection List (USCL), reduce contamination, and promote public awareness.

Source: Circular Action Alliance