With federal agencies still falling behind on PFAS deadlines, activists seek lawmakers’ help

The Environmental Working Group and Safer States say the U.S. EPA is moving too slowly on setting standards for PFAS in water, packaging and more. They’re pushing Congress and state legislatures to act as well.

By Megan Quinn • Feb. 10, 2023

Direct Pack gets Recycling Partnership grant for PET thermoform recycling in Mexico

California-based Direct Pack bought over 4,000 tons of PET from Phoenix in 2022 — a relationship the city touted ahead of the Super Bowl — for processing in Mexicali, where new capacity will be built.

By Maria Rachal • Updated Feb. 14, 2023

DOE report touts chemical recycling R&D opportunities while noting plastic’s environmental justice issues

The report, part of a long-term Energy Department effort to boost the viability of plastics recycling and cut energy use, touts opportunities in researching bio-based plastics as well as chemical recycling technologies. 

By Megan Quinn • Feb. 6, 2023

WestRock notes global paper market headwinds but touts sustainability investments as growing opportunity

WestRock reported lower Q1 income and withdrew full-year guidance due to market uncertainty. CEO David Sewell said increased packaging revenue and a focus on plastic packaging replacement projects are positive signs, however.

By Megan Quinn • Feb. 2, 2023

Oregon’s bottle bill system CEO talks tech improvements, refillables and the prospects for a national system

Oregon aims to attain its highest return rates yet with a range of modern updates. Jules Bailey, new CEO of the Oregon Beverage Recycling Cooperative, talks through what’s working and what’s next.

By Megan Quinn • Feb. 1, 2023

EPR still top recycling issue for state policymakers, but plastics and repair laws also on the horizon

While federal action is uncertain, multiple state governors and policy advocates aim to build on the momentum of producer responsibility laws for packaging this year. Numerous other bills are also expected to get consideration.

By Megan Quinn • Jan. 30, 2023

Vermont mulls EPR, bottle bill improvements to catch up on recycling goals

A report from the Department of Environmental Conservation recommends adopting EPR for hazardous waste, reducing PFAS and updating the state’s bottle bill to help reach its waste reduction, recycling and composting goals.

By Megan Quinn • Jan. 27, 2023

Connecticut governor backing EPR for packaging and other policies to increase state’s ‘self-sufficiency’

Gov. Ned Lamont said a combination of EPR, waste diversion and improved organics management will help Connecticut reduce a growing amount of waste exported to other states in the wake of a major WTE facility closing.

By Megan Quinn • Jan. 25, 2023

Virginia state task force calls for more recycling business opportunities, possible EPR policies

A group with recycling industry representation offered recommendations to divert more waste from landfills, but stopped short of recommending EPR for packaging or reaching consensus on a possible bottle bill.

By Megan Quinn • Jan. 18, 2023

New York Gov. Hochul says EPR for packaging a major priority in 2023

Hochul announced Tuesday she would introduce EPR for packaging legislation for the second time. Multiple efforts to pass versions of the policy through the state budget and legislative process failed in 2022.

By Megan Quinn • Jan. 11, 2023

Loop touts retail store expansion as standalone e-commerce program sunsets

The TerraCycle-backed reusable container program is now working with 37 U.S. retail stores, including Fred Meyer, Giant Food and Walmart.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 10, 2023

Stadiums pursue new technologies and tactics to boost waste diversion

As fans flock back to large venues, many are seeing new or updated waste initiatives. Operators are experimenting with different collection systems, reusable cups, reverse vending machines, on-site sorting and more.

By Katie Pyzyk • Updated Jan. 19, 2023