Global expansion of Extended Producer Responsibility packaging laws

Governments in the United States and Egypt are advancing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks to manage packaging waste and promote circular economies.

In the United States, seven states—Colorado, Oregon, California, Washington, Minnesota, Maryland, and Maine—have enacted EPR packaging laws. These regulations require manufacturers to register with a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) and report packaging data. Currently, the Circular Action Alliance (CAA) serves as the sole PRO for these states. Colorado and Oregon have already implemented producer fees, while other states are in the reporting phase with fees expected in the future.

In Egypt, the Ministry of Local Development and Environment is preparing to launch an EPR system for priority packaging materials. The initiative will utilize the national Waste Information Management System (WIMS) electronic platform, allowing producers and importers to register and disclose the quantities of packaging materials they introduce to the market. The scheme aims to reduce landfill waste, strengthen the circular economy, and create jobs within the recycling sector.