A framework for designing effective legislation for packaging in the United States
The Purpose of This Paper
This position paper offers a clear, consensus-built framework to guide policymakers as states consider EPR legislation for plastic packaging. Developed through extensive engagement across the entire packaging value chain, the paper outlines six key policy levers that support effective, equitable, and implementable EPR programs.
The paper reflects months of work by brands, retailers, manufacturers, recyclers, NGOs, government entities, and technical experts. It draws on a value-chain survey, a hybrid workshop on EPR fundamentals, and multiple rounds of review by U.S. Plastics Pact members (called “Activators”), whose feedback shaped the final guidance. This broad, active participation makes the points in the paper both balanced in perspective and pragmatic in design, offering a rare point of alignment for stakeholders who routinely navigate complex and often contentious EPR debates.
“Anyone who has worked on EPR legislation understands how complex these issues can be,” said Jonathan Quinn, CEO of the U.S. Plastics Pact. “The fact that our Activators aligned around these principles is a testament to the strength of this network and our shared commitment to advancing circularity in the United States.”
– Jonathan Quinn, President & CEO
U.S. Plastics Pact
A rare point of alignment for stakeholders who routinely navigate complex and often contentious EPR debates.
This position paper underscores the link between supply-side EPR obligations and demand-side policies needed to strengthen postconsumer recycled content (PCR) markets — a critical element of a functioning circular system. By translating circular economy objectives into clear, consensus-built guidance, the U.S. Plastics Pact offers policymakers a practical resource for developing legislation that works in real-world conditions while maintaining long-term circularity goals.