Emerging EPR Legislation in North America

Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in the United States and Canada

Download the e-book for a clear, practical look at how emerging EPR requirements are reshaping compliance.

You’ll learn what defines a “producer,” how obligations vary by region, and why registration, reporting, and program financing are becoming essential parts of waste-reduction policy. This e-book breaks down how to navigate differing rules across provinces and states, and what teams need to prepare as EPR regulations expand. See how Source Intelligence supports stronger compliance planning with streamlined data collection and clearer visibility into producer obligations.

Introduction

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a legislative tool and policy approach that makes producers financially responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, including design, takeback, recycling, and final disposal. EPR plays a significant role in promoting reliable and sustainable product designs, improving recycling efforts, and reducing waste.

While EPR legislation was first implemented in the European Union (EU), it has since expanded worldwide, including North America. EPR legislation in the United States and Canadian provinces are variable, so understanding the nuances of EPR legislation and your business is critical to determining applicability. If your company places products or packaging on the market in either country, you are likely considered a producer and must meet EPR compliance obligations.

The basics of Extended Producer Responsibility

Who is obligated to comply with EPR legislation? 

Producers are obligated to follow EPR legislation. In the context of EPR, the term “producer” applies to any business that manufactures, sells, brand-owns, or imports products or product packaging in an area with active EPR legislation.  

Since EPR is a universal tool, EPR legislation varies worldwide. Companies that meet producer obligation criteria must check for EPR legislation within each area they operate to assess their compliance obligations. Countries may also have applicability thresholds such as business turnover rate and the quantity or weight of products or packaging placed on the market. 

How do producers manage EPR compliance? 

While EPR compliance obligations differ in each area (region, province, country, state, etc.), most policies follow a similar structure. 

• Register with a local authorized body 
• Report the quantity of waste your company has placed on the market 
• Finance the management of EPR programs and the recycling of products your company has placed on the market and recycling programs 

For example, if your company is a producer of electrical and/or electronic equipment, fees associated with its EPR compliance obligations will help fund e-waste recycling programs. 

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