During the first half of 2021, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation for packaging and paper products gained traction in the United States. The movement on legislation accelerated and EPR laws were passed in Oregon and Maine. 

Both states introduced an element in their laws defined as eco-modulation. Eco-modulation is the concept of penalizing the use of materials that are less environmentally friendly and rewarding the use of those which are more eco-friendly (for example, with the imposition of taxes). 

Eco-modulation is an instrument to motivate manufacturers and suppliers to use packaging solutions that will have a minimal negative impact on the environment and consider the amount and type of waste that will be generated. This is part of extended producer responsibility (EPR) systems.

The OECD defines EPR as a policy approach under which producers are given significant responsibility for the treatment or disposal of post-consumer products directly to manufacturers. This provides incentives to create an environment in which it is economically most beneficial for manufacturers to produce with the lowest possible negative impact on the environment.

Eco-modulation implements a scale of fees for placing packaging on the market, which favors those methods of packaging that have a reduced negative impact on the environment. These fees consider the recyclability of the product, durability, and the possibility of reuse.

How does this translate to the NLCRC? 

Particular attention needs to be given to the current difficulty of sorting and recycling contaminated HDPE packaging, such as lubricant containers, in the current waste management system in the US. The physical properties of this packaging and the ability to clean, process, and reuse materials are of high interest on the market to make the processes economically feasible and advantageous.

This represents an opportunity for the lubricant container industry to come together under a unified approach and collaborate to make changes within the waste management system and recycle hard-to-degrade plastics such as lubricant containers. 

Investments in collection and recycling infrastructure are needed to help meet the US’s disposal management needs and create a resilient solid waste system that can adapt to emerging legislation.

It is important to search for technology-based solutions to improve recycling methods and rates. A solution that involves the active participation of the population has a high potential of being successful. 

There is no company alone that can shift the existing industry and community standards. To be able to make bold changes within a community, building trust and collaboration between many is essential. From industries to households, everyone has an essential role in reducing the lubricant container waste problem in the US.   The NLCRC founding leaders include Castrol, Valvoline, Pennzoil - Quaker State Company, Graham Packaging, and Plastipak Packaging. 

Learn how the NLCRC is addressing the waste problem by becoming a member. Connect with us through LinkedIn and Twitter. If you have any questions or inquires, send us an email at hello@nationallcrc.com.