EPR Is Here: Why AICC’s New Resource Hub Matters More Than Ever

Member Resources

Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is becoming a reality across the United States. As new state regulations emerge, independent packaging companies are facing increasing pressure to understand complicated legislation, reporting requirements, deadlines, and compliance expectations. That is why AICC has launched a centralized EPR Resources page designed to help members stay informed and prepared.

EPR laws shift the financial and operational responsibility for packaging waste from municipalities to producers, requiring companies to play a larger role in funding recycling systems and managing packaging materials at end of life. While these policies aim to improve recycling infrastructure and sustainability efforts, they also introduce major challenges for manufacturers, converters, and suppliers throughout the packaging supply chain.

For many independent packaging companies, tracking EPR developments across multiple states can feel overwhelming. Regulations vary by jurisdiction, timelines continue to evolve, and the potential impact on reporting, fees, material selection, and customer communication is significant. Some companies are still determining whether they qualify as obligated producers, while others are trying to understand what actions they may need to take next.

The new EPR Resources page on AICC NOW was created to help members cut through the confusion.

Rather than searching across multiple websites and scattered sources, AICC members can now access a curated collection of articles, legislative updates, implementation guidance, reporting resources, and industry analysis, all in one place.

The resource page is not just for companies directly affected by EPR legislation. These policies are beginning to influence customer expectations, packaging design decisions, and sustainability conversations throughout the industry. Even companies operating in states without active EPR laws may still receive questions from customers, retailers, and suppliers connected to emerging regulations elsewhere.

The pace of change also makes ongoing education essential. Several states are already implementing packaging EPR programs, while additional legislation continues to be introduced nationwide. Many industry experts view EPR as one of the most significant regulatory changes facing the packaging industry today.

By consolidating reliable information into a single destination, AICC is helping independent companies stay proactive rather than reactive. The Association’s goal is to provide members with practical, accessible information to understand the evolving landscape better and make informed business decisions.

As EPR discussions continue to accelerate, staying informed is no longer optional. With the launch of the EPR Resources page, AICC is giving independent packaging companies a valuable tool to navigate one of the industry’s emerging challenges.

Explore the new EPR Resources page at NOW.AICCbox.org/EPR-Resources.