Understand the supply, demand, and financial challenges of using PCR, and the market-driven and policy solutions that can mitigate these barriers
The Purpose of This Report
The report outlines how voluntary and policy solutions can build on one another, and highlights several integrated strategies to overcome the most persistent barriers:
- Comprehensive Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs that align financial incentives with circular outcomes through full cost coverage, eco-modulated fees, and consumer education
- Long-term procurement commitments from brands and retailers to stabilize markets and drive infrastructure investment
- Targeted policy interventions, including Deposit Return Systems (DRS), recycled content mandates, and landfill tipping fees
- Voluntary actions such as packaging redesign, consumer education, and investments in domestic PCR supply chains
“Using more recycled content in packaging reduces waste, cuts emissions, and keeps valuable materials in circulation. But persistent challenges—from infrastructure gaps to market volatility—mean we need aligned, collective action to scale impact.”
– Jonathan Quinn, President & CEO
U.S. Plastics Pact
Policy and market solutions to expand postconsumer recycled content and advance circularity
This report serves as a holistic analysis of the supply, demand, and financial barriers that limit PCR use. Drawing from the insights of more than 100 U.S. Pact participants—including brands, retailers, recyclers, and nonprofit and government organizations—the report makes clear that challenges are interconnected and must be addressed across the entire value chain.