September 2024 Newsletter

Lorax Compliance Researcher Verity A. looks at how Australia is pushing for EPR reforms to drive a circular economy in packaging. Despite progress toward the 2025 APCO targets, current regulations need updating to meet sustainability goals. Planned reforms include mandatory packaging design for recyclability, regulating harmful chemicals, and setting minimum recycled content requirements. These changes aim to reduce waste, boost recycling, and align Australia with global sustainability standards. Public consultation is expected in 2024, with full implementation by 2025.?

Curious about the US Plastics Pact and its goals? This blog from Lorax Research Intern Rania Jhumka offers an overview of the Pact's mission to transition towards a circular economy for plastics by 2030. Key initiatives include eliminating problematic materials, boosting recycling rates, and redesigning packaging to be more sustainable. It also highlights the importance of EPR and aligns with global movements like the UN Global Plastics Treaty. Perfect for those wanting to understand how the US is tackling plastic waste challenges.?

Reflecting on 2024 so far, we’ve experienced significant growth and exciting developments. Moving into a larger, more sustainable office was a major milestone, as we are celebrating our 10-year anniversary. Our team has expanded, adding new members to handle the increasing workload and prepare for what’s shaping up to be a busy autumn. With a focus on EPR reporting, packaging sustainability, and attending key industry events, we’re excited about what lies ahead and remain committed to innovation and positive environmental impacts.?

Key News Headlines:

Coalition seeks to narrow definition of 'recycling' in the U.S.?- A coalition led by the National Recycling Coalition (NRC) is advocating for a stricter definition of 'recycling'. The NRC's draft policy opposes labelling non-mechanical processes like chemical or advanced recycling as recycling, asserting that they primarily produce fuel rather than recover materials. The coalition argues that only mechanical recycling should be recognized under this term. They are seeking feedback on this stance from state recycling organizations and members as part of ongoing discussions about the future of plastics recycling and circularity.?

APCO 2030 Strategic Plan Overview - ?Unveiled in August 2024, APCO's 2030 Strategic Plan focuses on fostering a circular economy for packaging. The plan introduces a new eco-modulated fee model, incentivizing brand owners to reduce and redesign packaging for sustainability. It aims to increase recycling rates, reduce landfill waste by 1 million tonnes by 2030, and support high-quality recycling and packaging stewardship. By financially motivating sustainable packaging design, the plan addresses economic barriers to achieving national packaging targets and aligns with community expectations.?

U.S. Shifts Stance on UN Plastics Treaty: Embracing Broader Chemical Ban - ?There has been a recent shift in the United States' position regarding the UN Plastics Treaty. Initially resistant to strict regulations, the U.S. now supports including a broader range of chemicals in the treaty’s ban list. This change signals a more aggressive stance on tackling plastic pollution, aiming to address the environmental and health impacts of both plastic production and chemical additives. The revised position reflects growing domestic and international pressure to enhance plastic waste management and reduce harmful emissions.?

DEFRA has responded to criticism from the glass industry regarding the EPR base fees - The glass sector has expressed concerns that the new fees, intended to fund recycling programs, are disproportionately high and could impact the industry’s financial stability. DEFRA’s response includes a commitment to review and adjust the fee structure to address these concerns while ensuring that the recycling system remains effective. The agency aims to balance the need for comprehensive recycling funding with the industry's ability to manage associated costs.?

Upcoming Events

SPC Advance, Chicago: 30th September - 2nd October??-

Lorax COO Michelle will be leading two engaging workshops on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), including one titled "Tackling the Fundamentals of EPR". These sessions will provide in-depth insights into EPR principles, strategies, and best practices.?

Further Upcoming Conferences?- The Lorax EPI team is excited for a busy three months of conferences! If you'd like to connect at any of the upcoming events, feel free to send us a message to schedule a meeting or stop by our booth to say hello.?