Oregon’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program represents a shift in how businesses manage product packaging and environmental impact. The Circular Action Alliance (CAA) released a comprehensive project plan that implements Oregon’s EPR program by expanding recycling infrastructure, promoting education of and ensuring equitable access to recycling programs, as well as engaging stakeholders and enhancing material recovery.
Key Program Objectives
The CAA’s program plan mandates detailed reporting and financial accountability for packaging materials. Producers must track and report data about the covered materials they supply into Oregon, including the weight, number, and types of packaging, with specific guidelines on paper products and food serviceware. After reporting, producers will be responsible for paying the fees associated with their reported supply volume. This approach incentivizes more sustainable design by requiring companies to report their packaging choices, then basing the fee structure on the environmental impacts of the materials.
Extended Producer Responsibility Reporting
Producers may face different reporting requirements based on their size and product volume. Businesses with less than $10 million in global revenue or those supplying under 5 metric tons of products in Oregon may qualify for low volume reporting and be able to choose from simplified reporting options. Larger producers must provide comprehensive data on packaging weights and materials. To better understand what rules apply to your company, please refer to the CAA’s reporting guidelines
Oregon’s EPR Incentive Structure
The program introduces a unique eco-modulation bonus system that rewards producers for sustainable packaging innovations. Bonus details are still being developed, but as of early 2025, companies may be eligible to earn fee reductions by:
- Conducting detailed Life Cycle Assessments (Bonus A)
- Demonstrating significant reductions in packaging environmental impact (Bonus B)
- Exploring packaging reuse and recyclability (likely Bonus C)
Implementation Timeline
The program launches July 1, 2025, with initial producer reporting due by the end of March. Official fees will be released in June before the commencement of the program.
Oregon’s EPR program challenges producers to reimagine their environmental responsibilities and consider how they can make more sustainable decisions.
More Details
For more information on the status of Oregon’s EPR regulations, register for our webinar on February 13th from 2:00PM – 2:30PM EST.
In addition to Trayak’s EcoImpact-COMPASS LCA software, Trayak offers consultative services for Extended Producer Responsibility fee management, ensuring accurate data reporting. For more information about how Trayak’s EPR services can support your March reporting deadline, contact us or connect with your Trayak representative today.
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