EPR Framework

EPR is normally implemented within the context of state legislation. Local governments and communities have a stake in the development of effective state EPR legislation. An important accomplishment of the Product Stewardship Councils has been to propose clear EPR Framework Principles. These are offered as a template or “navigation guide” for the process of developing state legislation and implementing effective EPR programs. 

Government has a primary role to ensure a level playing field, which refers to having the same rules apply to all producers.  It also has a role to protect the public interest and the environment by establishing performance goals and recovery rates.  Just as it is hard to imagine a ball game without players, there is no game without referees and a rule book.

Framework Extended Producer Responsibility Policy Starter Kit    

Product Policy Institute has produced a tool for evaluating EPR Framework options.  The 22-page guide provides current information and recommendations on policy issues, options and specific language.  The Starter Kit is available to legislators, staff and advocates who want to move beyond product-specific producer responsibility legislation.  For more information e-mail info@ProductPolicy.org.

EPR Framework Status  (March 2009)

Product Policy Institute initiated detailed framework drafting with both the Northwest Product Stewardship Council and California Product Stewardship Council. Significant in-depth work on framework approaches has now been undertaken and continues with these Councils and within California, Minnesota, Oregon and Washington state agencies and processes. These efforts have been especially stimulated by successful EPR e-waste legislation and are further informed by lessons learned from Canada and Europe, and various stakeholder processes and dialogues on other product categories.      more...

Resources

• California EPR Framework Policy and Checklist - Adopted by California Integrated Waste Management Board January 2008.
• British Colombia Industry Product Stewardship Plan (2002) - The basis of North America's most comprehensive, operating EPR Framework regulation, ("Recycling Regulation" B.C. Reg 449/2004) implemented in 2004.
• Economic Impacts of the BC Recycling Regulation (2009)