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Join industry leaders and sustainability advocates on for a deep dive into Oregon’s extended producer responsibility (EPR) landscape. This forum moves beyond packaging to explore the specialized programs managing the lifecycle of complex products.

DATE: April 1, 2026, 11am - 4pm
LOCATION: Crowne Plaza Portland - Downtown Convention Center, 1441 NE 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97232
PRICE: $125 members | $195 nonmembers

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WHY ATTEND?

• Current Program Insights: Get the latest performance updates and strategic outlooks for established programs, including electronics (E-Cycles), paint, mattresses, and the evolving framework for batteries.
   
• National Landscape Scan: Stay ahead of the curve by exploring how other states are successfully tackling emerging categories like textiles, sharps, tires, and household hazardous waste.
   
• Proven Best Practices: Identify the core strengths of successful EPR models and learn how to apply these lessons to Oregon’s future initiatives.
   
• Strategic Collaboration: Participate in high-level discussions to help prioritize upcoming programs, define success metrics, and solve the state's most pressing waste management challenges.
   

Be part of the conversation that defines Oregon’s circular economy.

AGENDA

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Part 1: Oregon’s Current EPR Portfolio
Quick-fire updates on existing programs, focusing on 2026 transitions.

• Oregon E-Cycles: Discuss the HB 3220 expansion (effective Jan 1, 2026) which now includes game consoles, routers, and small servers. (Ali Briggs-Ungerer, MRM)
• PaintCare: Review the 2026 revised Program Plan and the proposed fee increase for 2027. (TBD)
• Mattress Recycling Council (MRC): Review of the 2026 operating budget and collection volumes. (Mike O’Donnell, MRC)
• Batteries: Update on HB 4144 (The Battery Producer Responsibility Act) currently moving through the 2026 Legislative Session. (Passage Assumed; Tom Egleston, AOR Legislative Chair)

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Lunch Break

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Part 2: The National Landscape Scan (Sarah Kirby, Metro; Tom Egleston, Metro)
What is moving in other states and how it impacts Oregon.

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Part 3: Core Strengths & Best Practices (DEQ and Metro)
Analyzing why some programs thrive while others struggle.

2:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Afternoon Break

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Part 4: Interactive Strategy Lab
A collaborative session to gauge the 'room temperature' regarding future EPR pathways. This exercise aims to identify emerging priorities and gather industry insights on what programs might warrant further exploration in Oregon.

SEEKING SPONSORS

Sponsorship opportunities are available for AOR’s 2026 Spring Forum! Sponsorship offers valuable visibility and a chance to demonstrate your organization’s leadership in advancing recycling and materials management.

SPONSOR THE FORUM