Here are some links to additional information regarding policy:
Senator Ben Allen: https://sd26.senate.ca.gov/
National Stewardship Action Council, Heidi Sanborn: https://www.nsaction.us/
California Against Waste, Nick Lapis: https://www.cawrecycles.org/
OSC2/American Sustainable Business Network, Zero-Waste Campaign & Policy Engagement Portal: www.asbnetwork.org/one-step-closer-zero-waste
RCD Packaging Innovation: Redefining ‘Recyclable’, An Open Letter about Evolving Definitions in the FTC Green Guides: https://www.rcdpackaging.com/redefiningrecyclable
Key Concepts:
Toxins of Concern In Packaging: parabens, phthalates and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), Learn more: Food Packaging Forum - https://www.foodpackagingforum.org/
EPR: Extended Producer Responsibility - EPR legislation places the responsibility for treatment and disposal of certain consumer products on producers, manufacturers, and retailers. EPR policies are gaining momentum as states are faced with an increasing amount of waste. States use EPR legislation to promote recycling efforts and require producers to develop takeback programs and more sustainable product designs. Learn More: https://epr.sustainablepackaging.org/
Existing Legislation:
CA AB 1201: Solid Waste Products, Labeling, Compostability & Biodegradability: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220AB1201
SB 343: Truth in Labeling Act: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB343
Proposed Legislation:
SB 54: Plastic Pollution Producer Responsibility (CA): Places a responsibility on businesses selling plastic packaging products in California to ensure that packaging reduces waste and uses materials that are reusable, can be recycled, or are compostable. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202120220SB54
Ballot Initiative: California Plastic Pollution Reduction & Recycling Act (CA): Require that single-use plastic packaging and foodware in California be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2030. Ensure plastic producers reduce single-use plastic packaging and foodware by at least 25% by 2030, as well as prohibit the distribution of plastic foam (e.g Styrofoam™) food containers. Fund local recycling programs, habitat restoration, and environmental cleanup — especially in underserved communities — through a fee charged to producers of plastic packaging and foodware of up to one penny per single-use plastic package or foodware item. Learn more here: https://www.stopplasticpollutionca.com/
UN Plastic Treaty (International): https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/03/1113142
Break Free From Plastic Act (Federal): https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/pollution-act/
