Circular Action Alliance Launches Nation’s First EPR Program for Packaging and Paper in Oregon

SEATTLE (Waste Advantage): Circular Action Alliance (CAA) announces the official launch of Oregon’s statewide EPR program for packaging, printing and writing paper, and food serviceware. This marks the first packaging EPR program in the nation, established under Oregon’s landmark Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA).

With the launch of this program, producers that make and sell paper and packaging are now responsible for funding and supporting a more consistent, accessible, and efficient recycling system.  “Oregonians have always taken recycling seriously, but until now, the system hasn’t always made it easy to do the right thing,” said Kim Holmes, Oregon Executive Director at CAA. “Oregon’s new EPR program aims to modernize and simplify recycling across the state. Over the next few years, Oregonians will have access to clearer information, more consistent services and a stronger recycling system that reduces waste and creates a stronger circular economy.”

Through the RMA, brands will now play a role in how materials are collected, sorted, and processed statewide, helping address long-standing challenges such as gaps in recycling access, infrastructure limitations, and consumer confusion.

Key elements include:

•          Producer Registration and Reporting: All obligated producers are required to register with CAA and submit brand and material data through the Producer Portal.
•          Eco-Modulated Fee Structure: Producers will contribute fees based on the type, weight, and recyclability of materials placed on the market. Fees are structured to reward the use of recyclable, low-impact packaging, providing financial incentives for better design choices.
•          Cost Coverage: Producer contributions ensure compliance with the RMA by supporting the cost of processing covered materials, local government reimbursements, transportation of recyclables from rural areas, statewide education and outreach, and the expansion of a drop-off network of recycling centers for materials not accepted in home or business recycling bins.
•          Producer Support: CAA provides technical assistance to help companies with registration and reporting requirements.
•          Transparency and Data Access: Producers will have access to performance data and cost breakdowns to ensure accountability and inform packaging and compliance strategies.

“The launch of Oregon’s EPR program marks a historic step forward, empowering producers to lead the transition to a more circular system for packaging and paper,” said Jeff Fielkow, Chief Executive Officer, CAA. “By working together, we can reduce waste, improve recycling, and build a model that delivers measurable impact while making it easier for producers to fulfill their sustainability commitments.”

What Comes Next 

By December 31, 2027, Oregon’s EPR program aims to:

•          Expand curbside recycling access to more than 150,000 homes and businesses statewide
•          Deploy nearly 100 new recycling collection trucks across Oregon
•          Establish over 140 new drop-off sites in communities statewide
•          Deliver clear, consistent recycling education to help Oregonians recycle with confidence
•          Reduce contamination and improve recycling system performance
•          Standardize recycling statewide through the Uniform Statewide Collection List (USCL)
•          Make strategic investments to on-ramp identified materials into the recycling program
•          Achieve statewide recycling goals as outlined in the program plan

Courtesy: www.wasteadvantagemag.com