EPR

We explain Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs, the role of the paper industry in EPR, our industry's investment to improve paper recycling and our recommendations for EPR programs. 

Download AF&PA's handout explaining the 2024 paper and cardboard recycling rates.

AF&PA applauds Maine Governor Janet Mills and state lawmakers for advancing LD 1423, which makes much needed improvements to the state’s EPR policy. 

We are disappointed by Governor Wes Moore’s decision to sign SB 901 into law and create an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program in Maryland. 

The New York State Legislature is considering 2 different bills that introduce an EPR program. The proposed legislation ignores the complexities of the state’s recycling system and the paper industry’s supply chain. 

Maryland lawmakers are hastily considering SB 901, a misguided bill that introduces an EPR program for packaging and paper products and poses significant risks to the paper industry. Lawmakers didn't consider the data or that paper recycling works. 

Before an EPR program is considered, states need to do a needs assessment. Download our handout explaining the benefits of conducting a needs assessment to understand the current state of waste and recycling systems. 

Before an EPR program is considered, states need to do a needs assessment. These studies help states better understand the current state of their waste and recycling system.

Paper is one of the most highly recycled materials in the U.S. The paper recycling rate was 65-69% and the cardboard recycling rate was 71-76%.

AF&PA announced 65-69% of paper available for recovery in the United States was recycled in 2023. The recycling rate for cardboard was 71-76%.