The landscape of waste management and recycling is undergoing a significant transformation across the United States, driven by the increasing adoption of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation. ISSA, the leading trade association for the cleaning industry, continues to provide invaluable resources to its members as they navigate these evolving regulations. We are pleased to announce a crucial update to our comprehensive EPR Guidance document, which now includes detailed information for Maryland and Washington State.

Extended Producer Responsibility is a policy approach that shifts the financial and operational responsibility for the end-of-life management of products, particularly packaging, from municipalities and consumers to the producers themselves. This paradigm shift aims to incentivize more sustainable product design, improve recycling rates, and create a more circular economy. With Maryland and Washington State recently enacting their own EPR laws, they join California, Colorado, Maine, Minnesota, and Oregon in leading this national movement.

The updated ISSA EPR Guidance document provides an essential summary of these new state-specific requirements. For cleaning industry businesses, understanding these nuances is critical for compliance and strategic planning. The guidance outlines key aspects such as covered materials, producer definitions, compliance timelines, and the role of Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs). Both Maryland and Washington’s laws emphasize the need for producers to either join a PRO or establish individual plans to manage the collection, sorting, and recycling of their packaging.

These additions to ISSA’s guidance reflect our commitment to equipping members with the most current and relevant information to thrive in an increasingly regulated environment. By providing clear insights into these complex regulations, ISSA helps businesses proactively adapt their packaging strategies, supply chains, and overall sustainability performance.

Access the updated EPR document here.

To delve deeper into the transformative impact of EPR and related circularity initiatives on the cleaning industry, we strongly encourage you to register for ISSA’s upcoming webinar: “The Sustainable Sweep: EPR, Circularity, and the Future of Cleaning Industry.” This essential event, taking place on August 19th, will feature expert insights and discussions on how these legislative shifts are reshaping product design, supply chains, and waste management practices. Don’t miss this opportunity to equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the future of packaging with confidence and capitalize on the shift towards a more sustainable future.

Register now for “The Sustainable Sweep” and ensure your business is prepared for the evolving landscape of producer responsibility!

For questions on EPR, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Director of Government Affairs John Nothdurft, [email protected].