Framework for an Extended Producer Responsibility System: California Integrated Waste Management Board
Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is a product stewardship concept that links the burden of waste disposal to product manufacturers. Many U.S. jurisdictions have either passed or are considering EPR legislation to shift the liability of managing hard-to-recycle products from their general taxpayers to product manufacturers. Sustainability Officers interested in learning more about EPR programs can refer to “Overall Framework for an Extended Producer Responsibility System in California,” a report prepared by California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) in 2008. This report identifies common key elements found in various approaches to EPR and provides CIWMB staff recommendations for an EPR framework. While the report is intended to guide further discussion and development of EPR programs in California, it contains a framework and analysis that may also be useful to other jurisdictions in formulating an EPR program.
