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.
Manufacturing different products is a lot like following a recipe. The U.S. paper industry uses a balance of fresh wood pulp and recycled paper pulp to make products. Fresh wood pulp comes from sustainably managed forests.
According to the report, total Containerboard production in Q4 increased 1% compared to Q4 2023. It was up 5% when compared to the same 12 months of 2023.
Total Boxboard production in Q4 increased 5% compared to Q4 2023. The boxboard operating rate was 84.7%, up 3.8 points from the same quarter last year and up 3.3 points year-to-date.
Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in December increased 13% compared to December 2023. They were up 11% when compared to the same 12 months of 2023.
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.
Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in November increased 9% compared to November 2023. They were up 11% when compared to the same eleven months of 2023.
Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in October increased 10% compared to October 2023. They were up 11% when compared to the same 10 months of 2023.
