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Global EPR & Circular Economy Trends for 2025–2026

caroline.houghton@valpak.co.uk — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 09:43:54 +0000

As 2025 comes to a close, sustainability and environmental compliance have shifted from abstract goals to practical, everyday considerations for companies across the world. While political and regulatory pushbacks have created some uncertainty this year, the overall trend remains steadfast: what was once a “nice to have” has now become fully ingrained into business strategies. Regulations are tightening, expectations are rising, and producers are being asked to take clearer responsibility for the materials they introduce into the market. What once felt optional is now firmly part of operational planning and long-term strategy.

This year brought continued evolution in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and related policies. Europe pushed forward with ambitious packaging reforms, North America expanded its state and provincial programs, and Latin America accelerated its transition toward circularity. Together, these developments outline a global trajectory that will shape how businesses prepare for 2026 and beyond.

Europe Leads the Way in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Europe remains at the forefront of environmental regulation. Over the past year, companies have been adapting to new requirements that touch packaging, batteries, textiles, and corporate reporting frameworks.

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation is nearing finalization and companies are preparing for new rules that strengthen accountability for reuse, recyclability and the overall environmental performance of packaging placed on the market. At the same time, the gradual rollout of the European Battery Regulation is prompting businesses to evaluate product footprints, integrate recycled materials and strengthen supply chain transparency.

Corporate reporting is undergoing its own transformation. Early adopters of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) have submitted their first disclosures following the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), demonstrating how data-driven sustainability can be integrated into traditional business processes. The shift is encouraging companies to improve internal systems so that environmental data becomes as reliable and auditable as financial information.

Textile EPR and Circular Economy Compliance in Europe

One of the most significant developments of the year is the proposal to introduce Extended Producer Responsibility for textiles through updates to the Waste Framework Directive. Europe has long identified textiles as a high-impact material stream due to low collection rates, inconsistent recycling infrastructure and the growing volume of fast fashion. The inclusion of textile EPR represents a turning point for the industry and signals a stronger effort to address waste at its source.

Alongside Textiles EPR, the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) links directly to these requirements by defining eco-design criteria and eco-modulation rules for fees under EPR. ESPR also introduces Digital Product Passports, which will affect textiles as well as other sectors, such as batteries, and establishes a ban on the destruction of unsold goods.

Countries are now preparing for phased implementation that focuses on building national collection systems, encouraging fiber-to-fiber recycling, and improving product traceability. Brands and retailers are beginning to evaluate design practices and material choices to ensure products can be recovered more easily. They are also exploring take-back programs, reuse initiatives, and partnerships with recyclers to support compliance once national systems go live.

Key milestones to watch are June 2027, when all EU member states must transpose the legislation into national law, and April 2028, when EPR must be fully operative across the EU. While this transition will not happen overnight, the groundwork being laid in 2025 positions Europe to establish a more consistent and efficient approach to textile waste by 2026 and beyond.

North America EPR Trends and Regulatory Updates 2025–2026

Momentum in the United States continues to build as state level packaging programs advance from policy to implementation. Maine and Oregon are finalizing registration processes and fee structures for producers. California’s SB 54 now requires a 25% reduction in plastic packaging by 2032, alongside funding for statewide recycling programs, and the state has also passed the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707), establishing the nation’s first EPR law specific to textiles. New York continues to advance its Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, which could significantly reshape producer responsibilities once enacted.

The Canadian EPR landscape continues to mature. In 2026, provinces like Saskatchewan and New Brunswick are set to expand the scope of electronics covered under EPR regulations. Notably, Saskatchewan will become only the second province, after British Columbia, to designate medical and monitoring devices. Battery and lighting EPR will also come into effect in New Brunswick, following their initial announcement in 2024.

Late in the year, British Columbia introduced several amendments to its Recycling Regulation, including new definitions and additional product categories, as the province seeks to refine its EPR framework with an eye toward 2027.

2026 will also mark the second year of the Federal Plastics Registry Report, which is set to expand reporting obligations to the ICI sector and to additional product categories such as construction materials and textiles.

Together, these developments bring North America closer to a more consistent, circular approach to resource management. Companies that prepare now will find themselves ahead of the curve.

Latin America: Emerging Leadership in EPR

Latin America is close behind, aligning policies with international best practices. Chile continues to lead with its EPR Law, in particular for WEEE and batteries, for which the draft regulation, requiring producers to meet collection and recycling targets, was published mid-2025.

Uruguay’s national packaging recovery initiative, Plan Vale, partnered with CIEMSA, CSI, and RLG to launch the country’s first Deposit Return System (DRS) for single-use beverage containers. This pioneering project makes Uruguay the first Latin American nation to adopt such a system. Colombia and Mexico are also implementing regulations focused on packaging waste, plastic reduction, and recycled content.

These programs show that circular economy principles are becoming central in the region, balancing environmental responsibility with economic and social goals.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for 2026

As companies prepare for 2026, it is becoming clear that global EPR systems are moving toward greater coordination and consistency. Regulators are also beginning to shift their expectations from basic disclosure to measurable performance. In practical terms, businesses are finding that strong sustainability reporting must be paired with tangible improvements in product design, material choices and end of life recovery. To achieve this, companies will need clear and detailed insights into their supply chains to identify opportunities for these improvements. Expectations surrounding reuse, recyclability and recycled content will become more visible and more quantifiable over the next year.

Digital reporting and product level traceability are emerging as core elements of environmental compliance. Companies will need a centralized data system and improve supplier engagement so that information can move smoothly through the value chain.

The rise of digital product passports and similar tools will accelerate during 2026 as governments seek better oversight of materials and as consumers demand clearer information about the products they purchase.

Circular design is becoming a foundational expectation rather than a niche practice. Regulators are paying closer attention to unnecessary packaging, non recyclable materials and product features that make disassembly or repair difficult. These pressures are encouraging businesses to evaluate design practices earlier in their development cycles, often resulting in cost savings as well as improved environmental performance.

With these trends converging, many companies are choosing to work more closely with external partners who can help interpret regulatory changes, assess exposure and translate sustainability goals into actionable steps. Expertise in EPR mapping, material assessments and supplier coordination is becoming increasingly valuable as organizations navigate more complex compliance environments.

Partnering for Progress

At RLG, we help businesses stay ahead of evolving EPR and environmental compliance regulations. Through our environmental compliance service, including Horizon Scanning and EPR Assessments, we provide insights and practical strategies to turn sustainability into real business value.

As 2025 comes to a close, the global push for circularity, transparency, and compliance is stronger than ever and shaping the way businesses operate worldwide. Organizations that prepare now will be ready to lead as new expectations unfold throughout 2026 and beyond.

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Our 2024 Impact Report is Here

Georg Empl — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 11:31:18 +0000

Last year we asked ourselves a simple question: What can we do better? Our 2024 Impact Report shares what we learned, and a look at where we’re headed as we push for even greater impact next year.

Inside, you’ll find more than just numbers. Our report tells the story of how our teams, partners, and solutions are creating positive ripple effects across industries, communities, and the planet. It charts our progress as we continue to scale our efforts to cut emissions, increase transparency, and support our customers in meeting their environmental goals.

“Our work focuses on tackling sustainability challenges and advancing circular economy solutions that benefit business, society, and the planet. We’ve supported our customers in optimizing their operations across the entire value chain, enhancing visibility, control, and environmental impact.”

Patrick Wiedemann, CEO Comply Division at Reconomy & CEO RLG

At RLG, impact doesn’t stand still. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, but even more excited about what’s coming in the years ahead. Explore the full report to see where we are today and where we’re heading next, together.

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RLG Joins the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Network

caroline.houghton@valpak.co.uk — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:15:51 +0000

We are proud to announce that we are officially part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Network, a global initiative driving the transition to a circular economy. This network connects us with a dynamic community of businesses, policymakers, and thought leaders with high ambitions to drive the circular economy. 

Why Join the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Network?

Founded in 2010 by renowned sailor and environmental advocate Dame Ellen MacArthur. The foundation collaborates with global businesses to drive systemic change toward a circular economy that eliminates waste and pollution, circulates products and materials, and regenerates nature.

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation has emerged as a global hub for innovation, thought leadership, and collaborative action, uniting organizations devoted to redesigning our economy for a more circular future.

What This Means for Our Customers

Joining the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Network enhances our capacity to deliver innovative circular solutions. With access to a diverse and collaborative community, we strengthen our position to:

Anticipate and respond to emerging sustainability trends and regulations

Apply timely, research-driven insights to our services

Collaborate on forward-thinking projects with global leaders

Training to stay ahead of emerging circularity trends

This active participation enhances our support for clients as they build resilient, future-ready business models.

A Natural Fit for RLG

At RLG, circularity is a core principle of our business. Our global compliance, take-back, and return management solutions are designed to reduce waste, recover value, and promote sustainability. Being part of this forward-thinking network naturally extends our mission to close the loop across industries and regions.

We’re proud to contribute to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Network’s collective impact and are excited to help shape a circular future. We look forward to the journey ahead.

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Call2Recycle and RLG Partner to Enhance Battery Collection Safety with Innovative Technology

Georg Empl — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 18:00:49 +0000

Toronto, ON, March 25^th, 2025 – Call2Recycle , Canada’s leading battery collection and recycling organization, and RLG, leading provider of circular solutions, are proud to announce their collaboration in advancing battery collection safety through the lithium-ion safety (LiSa) box. This new technology, provided by RLG, is designed to enhance safety and address the growing challenges faced by the recycling sector.

As the use of battery-powered devices continues to grow, the need for safe and convenient recycling options is also becoming increasingly important. Call2Recycle’s extensive network of nearly 15,000 collection sites already offers a comprehensive range of safety solutions to reduce risks of thermal incidents throughout the recycling process. The addition of the LiSa box, designed for shipping and storage of damaged, defective, or recalled lithium-ion batteries, will help further ensure safer collection and handling of these batteries.

The LiSa boxes will be introduced throughout 2025 in Call2Recycle’s collection network, and support industries using and collecting large volumes of lithium-ion batteries, offering a safe, scalable storage and transportation solution for end-of-life, damaged, defective or recalled lithium-ion batteries and electronics. RLG also offers a LiSa+ circular take-back service that provides battery and electronics collection on a timely basis and at the appropriate cadence for customer needs.

RLG’s local Canadian presence is backed by 20 years of global expertise in battery take-back solutions. “Our global impact amounts to an average of over 79,000 tonnes of batteries safely collected each year,” said Les Griffith, Senior Director Business Development, RLG Americas. “Through our partnership with Call2Recycle, we look forward to expanding our services in the North American market, ensuring the safe return of critical raw materials back into supply chains, conserving materials and providing growth through sustainable, circular solutions.”

“Call2Recycle is committed to staying at the forefront of innovations that promote safer end-of-life battery management,” said Joseph Chung, Vice President Account Management at Call2Recycle. “From provincial governments and battery producers to collectors and organizations offering unique, safe recycling solutions, we are proud to work alongside these partners to expand and improve battery recycling in Canada — and we’re excited to add RLG to that distinguished list.”

About the LiSa Box

Made with patented AkkuGrain technology, certified to the highest UN ADR P911 safe packaging standard, based on real-life fire tests.
This new technology suppresses fire in the event of a thermal runway reaction, also limiting noxious gases and releasing harmless water vapor.

About Call2Recycle Canada, Inc.

Call2Recycle^® is Canada’s leading organization for battery and battery-powered product collection and recycling, fulfilling product stewardship obligations on behalf of over 400 members, including producers of single-use and rechargeable batteries. Call2Recycle powers key recycling programs in Canada, including Recycle Your Batteries, Canada! for household and e‑bike batteries, Recycle Your Vapes for battery-powered vapes in Québec, and manages the industry-led voluntary EV Battery Recovery program for electric vehicle batteries in Québec. The organization operates provincially-approved programs in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Québec, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. It also functions as a registered Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) in Ontario, adhering to the Ontario Batteries Regulation. It offers collection and recycling services for household batteries (weighing up to 5 kg), as well as e‑transport batteries used to power e‑bikes, e‑scooters, e‑skateboards, hoverboards, and Electric Vehicles (EVs).

Since its inception in 1997, Call2Recycle has diverted over 50 million kilograms of batteries from Canadian landfills. It upholds its commitment to operating the highest quality battery recycling program in Canada and holds certification in the most rigorous and globally respected standards, including R2v3, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 9001. This reputation for excellence has enabled Call2Recycle to maintain trusted, long-term relationships with stakeholders and establish a network of nearly 15,000 participating collection locations across Canada, including at leading retailers and municipal facilities.

Media Contact

Call2Recycle – Charles-Antoine Dubois, Bilingual Corporate Communications Manager

Email: cadubois@appelarecycler.ca; Mobile: 647–464-7381

RLG – Diana Alpeza, Communications Manager

Email: diana.alpeza@rev-log.com; Mobile: 647–402-0864

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National Battery Day 2025: The Importance of Batteries and Their Sustainable Cycle

Georg Empl — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 16:16:16 +0000

On February 18th, we celebrate National Battery Day – a date that honors Italian physicist Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the first battery. It’s hard to imagine a day without the power of batteries. Since its invention over two centuries ago, the battery has revolutionized daily life. From small button cells in watches to powerful lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles and renewable energy systems, batteries have become an essential part of modern life.

The History of the Battery: From Volta to Today

The first functional battery, known as the voltaic pile, was developed in 1800 by Alessandro Volta. This groundbreaking invention laid the foundation for modern electricity and opened new possibilities for science and technology. Over time, batteries have been continuously improved – from early lead-acid batteries to today’s high-performance lithium-ion batteries used in smartphones, laptops, and electric cars.
In recent decades, battery technology has advanced rapidly. As demand for sustainable energy grows, new innovations such as solid-state batteries promise safer, more efficient power.

Batteries also play a crucial role in renewable energy storage. Solar batteries allow households and businesses to store excess energy from solar or wind power and use it at a later point when it’s needed, ensuring a more stable and sustainable energy supply.

At the same time, today’s researchers and industries around the world are focusing on reducing the environmental impacts of batteries and improving their recycling processes, with the goal of reshaping the future of energy storage. The battery’s journey is far from over.

The Importance of Battery Recycling

As we continue to use more and more batteries, the need to ensure their proper disposal and recovery of valuable raw materials is more important than ever. Batteries contain essential materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which can be reused to support a sustainable circular economy. However, improperly disposed batteries can release harmful substances and pose environmental hazards.

Governments around the globe have introduced stricter regulations for battery recycling. In the European Union, manufacturers are now required to disclose the carbon footprint of their batteries and meet stricter recycling targets. These measures drive the development of more efficient recycling processes and help minimize the environmental impact of battery usage.

How RLG Creates Sustainable Solutions for Battery Recycling

As a leading provider of take-back solutions, RLG is committed to promoting a sustainable circular economy in the battery sector. Through programs such as Rebat, RLG offers a comprehensive network for the collection, transportation, and recycling of batteries. The goal is to recover valuable raw materials into the production cycle while minimizing environmental and safety risks.

By leveraging innovative technologies and collaborating with industry and policymakers, RLG actively contributes to making battery recycling more efficient and sustainable. This ensures the conservation of resources and reduces the environmental impact of battery use.

Conclusion: Responsible Battery Use for a Sustainable Future

National Battery Day serves as a reminder of the importance of this technology and the responsibility we bear in ensuring its sustainable use and disposal. Batteries are indispensable in modern life, but their usage must go hand in hand with effective recycling solutions. RLG is committed to driving this transition and enabling a more environmentally friendly future.

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RLG Earns EcoVadis Platinum for Sustainability Excellence

Georg Empl — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:25:03 +0000

At RLG, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We are excited to announce that RLG Earns EcoVadis Platinum, placing us in the top 1% of companies globally. This prestigious recognition is a significant milestone in our ongoing journey toward sustainability and underscores our commitment to setting industry benchmarks and driving impactful change.

EcoVadis, a leading global authority in sustainability ratings, evaluated RLG across four key areas: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. Achieving the Platinum Medal demonstrates the strength of our sustainability management system and highlights our dedication to transparency throughout the value chain. It’s a testament to how deeply we’ve integrated sustainability into our daily operations.

Our Sustainability Manager, Leonor De Toro, emphasized:

“Achieving the EcoVadis Platinum Certification is a testament to how deeply our team has integrated sustainability into their daily work. It also reflects how well our strategy and business model align with creating meaningful impact. This milestone validates our progress and reinforces our commitment to supporting customers in achieving their sustainability goals. We’re excited to continue improving, scaling our positive impact, and working with our value chain toward a sustainable future.”

The Power of External Audits and Certifications in Driving Sustainability at RLG

At RLG, we believe in the power of external audits and certifications. They provide us with invaluable feedback, prompt self-reflection, drive process improvements, and strengthen our collaboration with customers. This approach has been central to our progress and success. We are committed to transforming how we do business and influencing the industries we work with to adopt sustainable practices. Together, we aim to build a more sustainable future for future generations. Being part of Reconomy’s Comply Loop, RLG is aligned with Reconomy’s broader vision. Reconomy aims to embed sustainability into every action, activity, and product.

Our Sustainability Report provides more information about our sustainability efforts. For more information about our awards and certifications, visit our dedicated page here.

Join us in celebrating this milestone and stay connected as we continue our journey toward sustainability excellence!

RLG Contacts

RLG Newsletter

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La nostra partecipazione a Ecomondo 2024!

Tim Poggemann — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 08:22:06 +0000

L’evento internazionale di riferimento in Europa dedicato alla transizione ecologica e all’economia circolare, centro di ricerca e di innovazione – Ecomondo – è ormai alle porte. La manifestazione si terrà dal 5 novembre all’8 novembre 2024 presso il Quartiere Fieristico di Rimini.

Siamo entusiasti di annunciarvi che RLG quest’anno sarà presente in fiera con le sue realtà italiane: RLG Systems Italia, ReDress e Consorzio RLG. Condivideremo lo stand con la nostra sister company Combineering, anch’essa come noi parte di Reconomy, specialista dell’economia circolare a livello internazionale.

Venite a trovarci presso il nostro stand 314–413 (padiglione D1) per scoprire le nostre soluzioni dedicate alla Responsabilità Estesa del Produttore (EPR) e all’economia circolare. Troverete il nostro team di esperti pronti ad accogliervi e a rispondere a tutte le vostre domande.

Per informazioni aggiuntive sull’evento o per fissare un appuntamento direttamente in fiera, non esitate a contattarci inviando un’email al seguente indirizzo: commercialeIT@rev-log.com.

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EPR Packaging Laws in Canada: Where are we now?

caroline.houghton@valpak.co.uk — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 19:05:33 +0000

EPR Laws for Packaging in Canada: Where Are We Now?

In Canada, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws for packaging require obligated producers to join Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), report packaging data, and pay fees to sell their products in most provinces.

What is Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is an environmental policy that makes “producers” accountable for the entire lifecycle of the packaging used to sell and ship their products. Specifically, producers—including manufacturers, importers, and retailers—must manage the collection, recycling, and disposal of the packaging materials they introduce into the market. Consequently, this approach ensures that responsibility for packaging extends beyond just the point of sale.

In Canada, EPR for packaging collects fees that directly support building the infrastructure needed to manage the collection, recycling, and environmentally sound disposal of packaging materials.

Consequently, these efforts aim to reduce the environmental footprint of packaging waste and promote a circular economy. By doing so, they ensure that materials are reused and recycled as much as possible.

Each Canadian province actively manages its own waste and recycling programs. For example, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia have implemented legislation that requires businesses to fund packaging recycling systems, either fully or partially. As a result, these provinces ensure that businesses contribute to the sustainability of packaging waste management.

In 2019, the Canadian Council of Environment Ministers introduced the Canada-wide Action Plan on Zero Plastic Waste. This plan aims to have all provinces transition to full EPR programs. Therefore, it establishes a clear goal for comprehensive waste management system across Canada.

Who must report packaging data, and who is considered a producer?

In Canada, a “producer” of packaging is generally defined as any entity that supplies packaging materials to consumers. These producers are responsible for managing the end-of-life of their packaging materials, ensuring they are collected, recycled, or disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner. The obligated entity is based on residency through a hierarchy structure.

The first obligated party is the manufacturer or company that owns the brand of the product being packaged. If the brand owner is a resident of Canada, they are considered the producer.
If the first obligated party is not a Canadian resident, the obligation falls to the first entity that imports products and their packaging into the reporting province.
If there is no identifiable brand owner or importer, the retailer who supplies the packaging to consumers is considered the producer and becomes the obligated entity.

In addition:

If the retailer who is considered the ‘producer’ is in fact a marketplace seller, the marketplace facilitator then becomes the obligated producer.
If the producer is a business that is a franchise, the franchisor is the obligated producer in each province in which it has franchisees.

Generally, the hierarchy follows this structure, although each province is different. If you are unsure if your business has compliance obligations, you may want to request an EPR assessment.

Which Canadian provinces have Enacted EPR Laws for Packaging?

In Canada, most provinces or territories have already enacted EPR legislation. The four that have yet to do so are PEI, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nunavut and Northwest Territories. An overview of those with current EPR legislation can be found below.

British Columbia

Since 2014, BC has had Canada’s first EPR program for packaging. It has consistently met its recovery targets. British Columbia Regulation 255/23: Recycling Regulation.

Key Timelines for British Columbia’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline

Alberta

New EPR regulations were passed in 2022, with implementation starting in 2025. Obligated producers must register with the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA).Alberta Regulation 194/22: Extended Producer Responsibility Regulation

Key Timelines for Alberta’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline
June 30: Annual ARMA report due
October 1, 2026: Operational start of the new system for registered communities without existing service as of November 30, 2022

Saskatchewan

Transitioning similarly to Manitoba with a phased approach starting in 2024. The draft plan is akin to Manitoba’s. Saskatchewan Regulation E‑10.22 REG 9: The Household Packaging and Paper Stewardship Program Regulations, 2023

Key Timelines for Saskatchewan’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline

Manitoba

Moving from partial to full industry-funded recycling through Multi-Material Stewardship Manitoba (MMSM), which will become the sole PRO. Manitoba Regulation 195/08: Packaging and Printer Paper Stewardship Regulation

Key Timelines for Manitoba’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline

Ontario

Transitioning to full EPR, starting community-by-community until 2025. Ontario Regulation 391/21: Blue Box

In the new structure, Circular Materials (CM) serves a dual role. They are both a PRO in charge of running a post-collection system for Blue Box material on behalf of its producers and the administrator of the common collection system for Blue Box materials. Landbell Canada,
Ryse Solutions, and EnviroFocus Inc. are the other PROs in Ontario. RLG Systems Canada is the operator of the system.

Producers of the “Blue Box material” are required to pay all costs associated with packaging waste management through one of the PROs listed above.

Key Timelines for Ontario’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline

Quebec

As of 2021, the updated Environmental Quality Act requires a PRO to handle the deposit and selective collection systems. Quebec Regulation Q‑2, r. 46.01: Regulation respecting a system of selective collection of certain residual materials

Éco Entreprises Québec (EEQ) has been designated by Recyc-Quebec to oversee these systems, and complete EPR is anticipated by 2025.

The breadth of Quebec’s new EPR framework sets it apart from the other provinces, as it covers all generators, not only those in the residential, public space, and educational sectors. Producers will begin reporting certain products intended for the industrial, commercial, and institutional (IC&I) sector in 2026, as the rule is phased in during its first year of implementation. Businesses that produce these materials will need to make modifications based on this significant development.

Key Timelines for Quebec’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline

New Brunswick

Brand owners are required to register with Recycle NB as the province transitions to EPR. Circular Materials is the sole PRO designated for New Brunswick. New Brunswick Regulation 2024–37: Designated Materials Regulation – Clean Environment Act.

Key Timelines for New Brunswick’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline

Nova Scotia

Implementing EPR by 2025, with producers required to register with Divert NS. Details on both materials and PROs is still pending. N.S. Reg. 139/2023: Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging, Paper Products and Packaging-Like Products Regulations

Key Timelines for Nova Scotia’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline
December 1, 2025: EPR implementation

Yukon

New EPR regulations for packaging and paper products in Yukon went into effect on January 25, 2024. Yukon Regulation O.I.C. 2024/19: Extended Producer Responsibility Regulation.

Key Timelines for Yukon’s EPR Law for Packaging

May 31: Annual Reporting Deadline

What Producers Need to Do to Comply with Packaging EPR Laws in Canada

To meet their obligations, producers must gather key attributes of packaging placed on the market in relevant jurisdictions and report that data to PROs. Producers must then make payments to PROs based on fee structures.

Producers who rely on classic office spreadsheets find that gathering and collating packaging data is laborious, error-prone, and time-consuming. Retailers, especially those with white label or store brands, will need to gather packaging data from their suppliers and then verify that data to ensure no overpayments on EPR fees are made.

In the same way that businesses hire accountants and payroll companies, many producers prefer to outsource packaging data management and compliance activities to experts rather than handle the work internally.

How RLG Helps Producers Gather, Verify, and Report Packaging Data

As part of the Reconomy family, RLG has over 30 years of experience assisting the world’s most iconic brands with packaging EPR data management and compliance.

Our packaging database holds over 50 million SKUs that can be used to fill data gaps, verify data accuracy, compare SKUs, and more. Access plans currently start at a flat rate of less than $1195 CAD.

Producers with a solid handle on their data and who do not need data management assistance may benefit from RLG’s environmental compliance services. Our compliance experts can handle registrations, submit reports, review invoices, and manage payments across jurisdictions where producers may have obligations.

Here and Now: Federal Plastics Registry

In April 2024, Environment and Climate Change Canada released its notice of implementation of the Canadian Federal Plastics Registry in the Canada Gazette. The Registry will be collected and reported in alignment with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) through Section 46 Part 1.

The goal of the registry is to promote a circular economy by supporting a broader strategy of achieving zero plastic waste by 2030. The registry will facilitate the adoption of consistent, comprehensive, and transparent Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules across Canada and help ensure that producers are accountable for the entire lifecycle of their plastic products. As the Federal Plastics Registry comes into effect, RLG’s EPR experts anticipate increased regulatory activity that will shape how businesses manage plastics throughout their lifecycle.

Exempted producers:

Those who manufacture, import or place on the market less than 1,000 kg of plastics products or packaging
Small waste generators, generating less than 1,000 kg of packaging and plastic product waste at their industrial, commercial or institutional (IC&I) facility
Small waste managers – service providers that manage less than 1,000 kg of plastic via activities such as collecting, recycling, or disposal

Key Reporting Timelines:

First Report: September 29, 2025
Second Report: September 29, 2026
Third Report: September 29, 2027

RLG is ready to assist producers in complying with the more stringent data collection, transparency standards and comprehensive reporting, required by the registry. Connect with our experts today to understand these changes and how they could impact your business.

For more information on U.S. packaging laws, click here to view our article.

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ReVo: A Revolution in Waste Management

Jethro.Manurung — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:41:36 +0000

In a bold move set to reshape the landscape of waste management in Latin America, the Reverse Logistics Group (RLG) is undergoing a transformative rebranding. Introducing ReVo – the new face of RLG’s mission to revolutionize the industry.

“ReVo is the new image of RLG that will revolutionize the waste management industry,” asserts Daniel Ott, Manager of Latin America, encapsulating the spirit of innovation driving this change.

This shift marks not a replacement of RLG but rather a strategic repositioning of its collective efforts in the region. Known internationally as Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), these plans under the ReVo banner are poised to set new standards and deliver enhanced benefits to stakeholders across Latin America.

Embracing this evolution means embracing a new identity, one that signals a commitment to excellence in both commercial operations and service delivery. ReVo invites partners, companies, organizations, and consumers alike to join in this journey towards sustainable waste management practices.

“Our commitment remains steadfast in providing high-quality, sustainable recycling services as our top priority,” reassures Ott, emphasizing the unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship.

Echoing past rebranding endeavors of RLG, the transition to ReVo will unfold in a phased approach. This meticulous strategy ensures that while the brand evolves, the essential services and operations continue seamlessly, underscoring the organization’s commitment to reliability and sustainability.

The vision behind ReVo extends beyond mere cosmetic changes; it represents a paradigm shift in how waste is perceived and managed. Through innovative strategies and collaborative efforts, ReVo aims to not only meet but exceed expectations, setting a new benchmark for waste management excellence in Latin America.

As the familiar hues of RLG make way for the vibrant energy of ReVo, it heralds a new era of progress and possibility in the realm of sustainability. With each step forward, ReVo reaffirms its role as a catalyst for change, inspiring others to join in the pursuit of a cleaner, greener future for all.

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Ecomodulation: Shaping the Future of Waste Management

Tim Poggemann — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 13:45:30 +0000

The European Commission adopted the new Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP), an initiative aimed at making production in the European Union more eco-friendly. To bolster this plan, existing directives on waste and packaging were revised, and new laws were introduced to address the environmental impact of plastic use. A crucial milestone was the approval of Directive (EU) 2018/852 on May 30, 2018. This directive emphasized the importance of European countries working together. It highlighted the significance of using less and reusing more as the most effective method to reduce waste and its environmental consequences. Countries were urged to encourage reusable packaging, such as refundable bottles, and set targets for its usage. Financial incentives were suggested for companies adopting these practices. Additionally, regulations promoting reduced use of non-recyclable and excessive packaging were proposed. This collaborative effort underscores the EU’s commitment to establishing a unified and environmentally conscious waste management system.

Ecomodulation has emerged as a powerful strategy gaining traction in the European Union and globally. At its core, ecomodulation involves rewarding or penalizing producers based on specific product characteristics. It aims to regulate the financial contributions made by companies to waste management organizations, considering the impact of sorting and recycling processes associated with their products. This approach encourages the use of easily recyclable materials with lower environmental impact. By adjusting fees, businesses are incentivized to invest in sustainable packaging and product solutions, promoting eco-friendly practices.

Ecomodulation can be applied to various waste types, with the most relevant sectors in Europe including WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), batteries, and packaging. Key factors considered during ecomodulation assessments include durability, reparability, reusability, recyclability, and the presence of hazardous substances. Common criteria for ecomodulation include the percentage of recycled materials in products. Items with higher recycled content incur lower fees, encouraging the use of environmentally friendly materials. Obstructive packaging, which hampers selective collection and recycling processes, faces higher penalties. Additionally, the color of glass and plastic packaging influences fees, with opaque or non-colorless packaging incurring higher charges. In the EEE waste fraction, ecomodulation can be based on spare part availability, recycled content, and energy efficiency.

Several countries, including France, Belgium, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden, have embraced ecomodulation, making significant strides towards sustainability. Spain recently joined this initiative, implementing ecomodulation fees this year. Other nations, like the United Kingdom, have announced plans for upcoming developments in ecomodulation. For example, specific packaging items, including plastics containing carbon black and certain types of plastic films, may face higher fees under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. These initiatives represent a significant shift towards environmentally responsible business practices. By emphasizing ecomodulation and adopting strategies from these pioneering countries, businesses are actively fostering a sustainable culture. Stay tuned for further updates on these green initiatives.

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