​In contrast to the U.S. recycling system of contractual agreements between haulers and recyclers with municipalities or residents, other countries – which operate under an extended producer responsibility (EPR) structure – rely on a central body to coordinate the recycling network, increasing efficiency and recovery.

A shift in the U.S. to EPR for consumer packaging would change the way the current contractual arrangements with recyclers and waste haulers are structured.

Could the U.S. shift to an EPR scheme where consumer packaging manufacturers manage and fund the recycling system? Would this change be for the better? Could it provide stability during market downturns and simplify system economics? Who would ultimately own recycled material, and how would a shift in ownership change economic dynamics?

Using the British Columbia system as a case study, expert speakers will explore these questions and more during the third part of PSI's packaging webinar series.