First Advisor
Dr. Max Nielsen Pincus
Date of Award
Spring 5-23-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Environmental Science and University Honors
Department
Environmental Science and Management
Language
English
Subjects
Extended Producer Responsibility, Environmental Policy, Environmental Management, Waste Management, Materials Management
Abstract
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a waste management program used globally to improve the recovery, recycling, and management of solid waste materials. There are three types of EPR programs defined by their target materials: electronic and electrical waste (WEEE) EPR, hazardous waste EPR, and packaging EPR. Europe has implemented all three types with relative success. The US has implemented WEEE EPR and hazardous waste EPR and is currently in the process of implementing packaging EPR on a state scale in Oregon, California, Colorado, Maine, and Maryland with 10 more bills being introduced in 2024 alone. Oregon’s EPR program will be the first implemented and would benefit from two changes that would benefit producers and ensure a successful rollout across the nation. The first is the use of a single Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) rather than multiple and a timeline extension for a graduated reporting structure.
Recommended Citation
Vandal, Zoe, "Extended Producer Responsibility: Successes, Failures, and the Future of Oregon Recycling" (2024). University Honors Theses. Paper 1513.