Every year, the U.S. generates millions of tons of packaging waste. In response, states like Oregon are taking bold steps to make producers responsible for their products — from design to disposal.

What is EPR?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) shifts the responsibility of waste management from taxpayers to businesses. The idea is simple: producers must take accountability for their products from start to finish—this includes design, production, recycling, and disposal. EPR (including Oregon EPR) encourages companies to focus on sustainable product design, reduce waste, and boost recycling. The goal? A circular economy where materials are reused and recycled, not thrown away.

Why Does EPR Matter?

Packaging waste is one of the biggest culprits of pollution. According to the EPA, packaging makes up about 28% of municipal waste in the U.S. Unfortunately, a lot of that waste, including plastics, glass, and metals, ends up in landfills or pollutes our oceans. EPR policies tackle this by motivating businesses to design products that are easier to recycle, use eco-friendly materials, and create less waste overall. This shift helps conserve resources, reduces pollution, and encourages more sustainable business practices.

Who is Impacted by EPR Policies?

Oregon is a pioneer in implementing an EPR program focused on packaging. Under Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act (SB 582), which will take effect in July 2025, producers—think manufacturers, importers, and distributors—will need to pay fees based on the environmental impact of the packaging they use and how much of it is distributed in the state. The good news? Companies that use sustainable materials or reduce packaging volume can earn fee reductions through ecomodulation—a system that rewards businesses for making greener choices. While Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) are not mandatory, they play a huge role in helping companies assess their products’ environmental impact and reduce fees by demonstrating eco-friendly practices.

What Role Do Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) Play?

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), also known as Life Cycle Analysis, is a tool that evaluates the environmental impact of a product from start to finish. These assessments look at the entire lifecycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. LCAs evaluate factors like energy consumption, water use, emissions, and resource depletion. The five stages evaluated in an LCA are:

  • Raw Material Extraction
  • Manufacturing & Processing
  • Transportation
  • Consumer Use & Retail
  • End-of-Life

For packaging, LCAs provide critical insights into the environmental footprint of different materials, giving producers the data to make informed decisions. By quantifying the impact at each stage, LCAs highlight areas for improvement, helping companies reduce their overall environmental footprint.

Benefits of LCAs Beyond EPR Fees

Although LCAs aren’t required by Oregon’s EPR policy, they bring a lot of value to both businesses and the environment:

Enhanced Transparency

Sharing LCA results shows that a company is committed to sustainability. This transparency can attract customers and investors who prioritize eco-friendly practices.

Increased Supply Chain Efficiency

LCAs help businesses spot opportunities to reduce resource use, minimize waste, and cut costs. This can make supply chains more efficient, lower production costs, and boost profits.

Lower Environmental Impact

LCAs help companies identify ways to use sustainable materials, lower carbon emissions, and reduce waste. By focusing on renewable and recycled materials, businesses can lessen their environmental impact and help build a circular economy.

By understanding the full lifecycle of their products, producers can make data-driven decisions that lead to real environmental improvements.

The Path Forward for Oregon and Beyond

The Oregon EPR program stands out by integrating LCAs into the process, guiding businesses in making better packaging choices. As the program rolls out, it will encourage companies to innovate, reduce waste, and increase recycling rates. EPR policies like Oregon’s are essential for shifting product design, waste management, and consumption towards a more sustainable, circular economy.

Businesses should start considering the environmental impact of packaging and waste management now to prepare for the 2025 EPR rollout. Other states such as California and Colorado are launching similar legislation, highlighting the urgency to prepare for compliance across the country. By implementing LCAs and cutting down on waste, producers can align with EPR goals, driving real change, holding themselves accountable, and minimizing environmental impacts.

Next Steps: Prepare for EPR

With the 2025 deadline approaching, now is the time to assess your packaging’s environmental impact. Contact CarbonBright today to simplify your LCA process and prepare for EPR compliance.