Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs are historically tied to products that are hazardous or difficult to recycle. In seven states, new EPR legislation requires producers of high volume waste to take financial responsibility for recycling the packaging associated with their products.

If your brewery sells packaged beverages using cans, glass or plastic bottles, cartons, cardboard carriers, etc., these regulations and financial obligations may apply to you. 

View states with EPR laws and their near-term deadlines.

Key Details

• California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington have active EPR programs with near term deadlines for producer registration and/or reporting. Learn more.
• While specific regulations vary significantly by state, a producer is defined as the owner of the brand name on the package. In these seven states, the producers’ obligations apply where the product is sold, not where it is produced.
• In each of these states, the registration process and the producer’s responsibility varies. In general, the producer registers and pays fees to a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO). The Circular Action Alliance (CAA) is operating as the single PRO in California, Colorado, Maryland, Minnesota, Oregon and Washington.
• Most EPR programs include exemptions for certain producers. Small producers may qualify based on global revenue or the volume of packaging sold into a state. Even if your brewery qualifies for an exemption and owes no fees, you may still be required to register and document your status.

Thanks to Eco Beverages for their insights and input on this communication. Founded by craft beer industry professionals, Eco Beverages is the subject matter expert on EPR compliance, from assessing obligations and collecting packaging data to registering with the CAA and submitting reports.