The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) convened an Advisory Group for Plastics and Packaging on July 24, 2025, to discuss the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging. The meeting focused on identifying potential pitfalls and objectives of the EPR program, which aims to address the challenges of plastic waste management.

The session began with a discussion on the mechanisms for determining a central list of materials eligible for EPR, emphasizing that participation in this system would be optional for certain materials. Participants expressed concerns about the potential pitfalls of the EPR program, highlighting the need to avoid prescriptive goals in the legislation. There was a consensus that setting rigid targets could lead to unintended consequences, including increased costs for consumers.

A significant point of discussion revolved around the primary objectives of the EPR initiative. Members debated whether the program's goal was to transfer costs from municipalities to producers or to genuinely improve recycling rates. The conversation underscored the complexity of the issue, with participants acknowledging that the EPR system could potentially enhance efficiency in waste management, thereby increasing recovery and diversion rates.

The group also recognized the multifaceted nature of packaging EPR, noting that it encompasses a wide range of materials and challenges, making it more complicated than other product categories. As the meeting progressed, participants were encouraged to share their insights and experiences to inform the development of the EPR framework.

In conclusion, the Advisory Group's discussions highlighted the critical need for careful consideration of the EPR program's design and objectives. The insights gathered will be instrumental in shaping recommendations for the commission and the legislature as Massachusetts moves forward with its EPR initiatives. Further action items and follow-up discussions are anticipated as the group continues to refine its approach to managing plastic and packaging waste.