Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the Hierarchy of Sustainable Practices

by Thomas Whitman | Aug 27, 2025 | News, Packaging

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is reshaping the packaging world. In simple terms: if you make it, ship it, or sell it, you’re now responsible for what happens to that packaging once it leaves your customer’s hands.

Across the U.S., momentum is building. Seven states have already passed EPR laws, and a dozen more are considering similar legislation. The shift moves recycling and waste-management costs away from taxpayers and onto producers and retailers.

For businesses, that means packaging choices have gone from a “nice-to-have” sustainability perk to a critical compliance and cost-management issue. Get it wrong, and you could be paying higher fees or even facing penalties. Get it right, and you not only reduce risk – you strengthen your brand, cut costs, and win customer loyalty.

So where do you start? By understanding the hierarchy of sustainable packaging practices.

♻️ The Hierarchy of Sustainable Practices

1. Avoid & Reduce

The most sustainable product is the one you don’t use.
Eliminate unnecessary packaging and excess materials.
Design for minimal material use without compromising protection.

2. Reuse & Repair

Prioritize durable packaging that can be reused multiple times.
Explore returnable models like reusable totes or refillable containers.
Design for repair and long-term use instead of single-use disposal.

3. Renewable & Natural Materials

Use plant-based, rapidly renewable resources such as bamboo or molded fiber.
Transition away from petroleum-based plastics where alternatives exist.

4. Recycled Content

Choose packaging that incorporates post-consumer or post-industrial recycled materials.
Support recycling markets and help close the loop.

5. Recyclable & Compostable Design

Ensure packaging can be recycled or composted at end-of-life.
Favor single-material or easy-to-disassemble designs.
Example: PlantWave™, a renewable, compostable protective solution that replaces traditional foam.

6. Energy & Carbon Efficiency

Opt for lightweight packaging that lowers transportation emissions.
Prioritize products that require less energy to manufacture, ship, and store.

7. Safe & Circular Disposal

When reuse or recycling isn’t possible, ensure packaging materials safely break down (compostable, biodegradable).
Avoid toxic coatings or additives that prevent recovery.

Why It Matters for Your Business

EPR regulations vary by state and can be complex. What qualifies as “recyclable” in California may not in Oregon. But no matter where you operate, adopting sustainable packaging is more than compliance – it’s future-proofing your business.

Cost savings through reduced waste and shipping efficiency.
Brand loyalty from customers who demand sustainable options.
Regulatory readiness as more states adopt EPR frameworks.

Arnold Packaging: Your Partner in Sustainable Packaging

At Arnold Packaging, we’ve been helping businesses solve packaging challenges for over 90 years. Today, we’re leading the way in sustainability with solutions.

🌱 Strong enough to replace petroleum foams
🌱 Compostable and recyclable to fit circular economy goals
🌱 Lightweight to cut shipping costs and emissions

Whether you’re navigating EPR regulations, looking to reduce your packaging footprint, or seeking cost-effective alternatives, we’re here to help.