EPR Compliance Requires Operational Talent and Expertise

Packaging EPR laws are continuing to grow across the U.S., and brands now have to look more closely at what their packaging is made of, how it’s labeled, and what happens after it reaches the consumer.    In a new @Packaging Insights article, our CRO @Sahar Mehrabzadeh shares how this change is creating a need for stronger packaging data and more intentional material decisions.    For Bay Cities, this is where thoughtful packaging makes a real difference, helping brands balance compliance, cost, sustainability, and the consumer experience.    Check out the full article: https://lnkd.in/eifvQNwR    #PackagingInsights #EPR #SustainablePackaging #SB54 

California’s final EPR regulations are now in effect, and packaging producers need to pay attention. According to Holland & Knight, the California Office of Administrative Law approved the final regulations for SB 54, the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, on May 1, 2026. The rules became effective immediately, triggering new compliance obligations for producers of packaging and plastic food service ware in California. One of the biggest takeaways is how quickly the deadlines arrive. Producers are required to register with the approved Producer Responsibility Organization, apply as an independent producer, or seek a small producer exemption within 30 days of the regulations taking effect. The article also notes that baseline reporting, annual supply reports, and source reduction planning are now key parts of the compliance process. Producers will need to review packaging data, understand covered material categories, and prepare for source reduction targets of 10% by 2027, 20% by 2030, and 25% by 2032. For the plastics and packaging industries, this is more than a regulatory update. It is a sign that material sourcing, packaging design, recycled content, documentation, and supplier relationships are becoming central to compliance strategy. Companies that wait may have fewer options. Companies that prepare early will be better positioned to manage cost, compliance, and supply chain risk. As EPR programs continue expanding, stronger industry connections will matter more than ever. Source: Holland & Knight #PlasticsIndustry #Packaging #EPR #SB54 #RecycledResin #Sustainability #SupplyChain #PlasticRecycling #Manufacturing #PlasticsNXT

As California’s landmark packaging law, SB 54, reshapes the future of packaging, companies are racing to innovate and reduce, even as legal challenges add uncertainty to the path ahead for us all. Check out my newest Trellis article below ⚠️ ♻️

#INKISH - California’s landmark SB 54 packaging law officially entered its operational phase, triggering mandatory registration, reporting, and compliance requirements for producers of packaging and food service ware. The legislation establishes aggressive recycling, source reduction, and recyclability targets that are expected to influence packaging strategies far beyond California’s borders.-https://lnkd.in/eADFbpuq

The Bergeson & Campbell, P.C. (B&C®) Product Stewardship team is excited to announce daily coverage of the bench trial for National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) v. Feldon, set to begin July 13, 2026. The case considers the constitutionality of certain aspects of Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA), the first Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) packaging program in the United States. Specifically, NAW asserts that Oregon’s packaging EPR program is unconstitutional on two primary grounds: violation of the Due Process Clause, particularly as it relates to delegating authority to producer responsibility organization Circular Action Alliance, and violation of the Commerce Clause, given the state program’s implications for out-of-state businesses. https://lnkd.in/eEw3v2ff

Companies race to comply with California’s new plastic reduction law. There’s little guesswork but a lot of preparation ahead for companies operating in California. Key Takeaways: • The regulations went live on May 1 and companies have until August 1 to submit detailed plans for reducing plastic packaging over the next six years. • California requires companies to reduce plastic packaging through five designated pathways — some are already underway, others will be harder to achieve. • These changes will ripple through the economy, raising the bar for the solutions producers are expected to bring to the table.

California’s new plastic reduction law is another reminder that the plastics landscape is changing quickly. Requirements like these are raising expectations for how companies manage plastic use, while litigation, PFAS-related claims, and new disclosure obligations continue to reshape the broader risk landscape. That’s the focus of our webinar, Plastics Under Scrutiny: Understanding a New Era of Corporate Liability. If you weren’t able to join us live, the recording is now available on YouTube. 🎥 Watch now: https://lnkd.in/dRj6QVGC

From the Guardian: "A groundbreaking California law that compels packaging producers to phase out single-use plastics is already sparking anger from the chemicals industry and environmental groups just weeks after going into effect." Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/g-9c2BHn

Beyond packaging costs, shelf appeal, and branding, packaging decisions now influence the financial and environmental performance of a product. California's Senate Bill 54 is a clear example. By August 1, 2026, producers selling products into California must submit an Individual Source Reduction Plan outlining how they will reduce single-use plastic packaging by 25% by 2032 compared to a 2023 baseline. As packaging regulations evolve, organizations need data to evaluate trade-offs and make informed decisions. By applying life cycle thinking, we help clients evaluate packaging alternatives, reduce compliance costs, and develop source reduction strategies that align with regulatory requirements while supporting business objectives. If you're currently navigating Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), join us on July 29 at 11:00 AM EDT for a live webinar. We'll cover the latest EPR updates, California deadlines, and answer your EPR and packaging-related questions during a live Q&A with our sustainability experts. ➡️ Register here: https://lnkd.in/g3TukTur

Why certification matters. As sustainability requirements increase, packaging decisions are becoming more complex. 📋 Buyers are expected to evaluate environmental claims, compliance requirements, disposal pathways, and operational performance. That makes independent certification increasingly important. Certification helps provide confidence that a material has been tested against recognised standards and performs as claimed. For procurement teams, it helps reduce supplier risk. For brands, it supports credibility. For consumers, it helps reduce confusion around environmental claims. Terra-V™ films are: 🏅 TÜV OK Home certified 🏅 TÜV OK Industrial certified Providing independently verified compostability credentials. Because sustainability claims are strongest when they are supported by evidence. 🔍 If you’re reviewing compostable packaging options, certification should be part of the conversation. #CompostablePackaging #SustainablePackaging #PackagingInnovation #TerraV #FlexiblePackaging