EPR Foundations: What are Recycled Content Targets?
Recycled Content Targets set mandatory minimums for recycled materials in packaging, promoting a circular economy. Companies must track material composition, report recycled content, and adjust packaging to comply with state-specific EPR laws. Meeting these targets enhances sustainability efforts, strengthens brand reputation, and ensures compliance with evolving regulations in the packaging industry.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging is a policy approach that holds producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, especially the end-of-life stage.
Implementing EPR involves several key steps:
- Product Design: Innovate packaging to be more recyclable and use fewer resources.
- Collection and Recycling: Develop or support systems for collecting and recycling packaging waste.
- Financial Responsibility: Cover the costs associated with the disposal and recycling of packaging materials.
By embracing EPR, companies can play a pivotal role in reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices in the packaging industry.
Recycled Content Targets Decoded in Simple Terms
Recycled Content Targets are a crucial component of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging in the United States. These targets mandate that a certain percentage of a product's packaging must be made from recycled materials. This policy aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste by encouraging the use of recycled content, thereby promoting a circular economy.
For Consumer Product Goods companies, understanding and meeting these targets is essential. Compliance involves several steps, including:
- Data Collection: Gather detailed information on the packaging materials used, including the percentage of recycled content.
- Reporting: Submit accurate reports to regulatory bodies, detailing the recycled content in your packaging.
- Adjustment: Modify packaging designs to increase the use of recycled materials, ensuring compliance with state-specific EPR laws.
By adhering to Recycled Content Targets, companies not only comply with regulations but also enhance their sustainability credentials, which can lead to increased consumer trust and brand loyalty.
Getting Started: EPR Compliance Resources for SMEs
The EPR compliance hub from rePurpose Global can automate in 1-click what would otherwise take you over 3 months of manual effort. It quickly compiles CAA reports, estimates fees and tax liabilities, and keeps you updated on emerging regulations, including Labeling laws, PCR mandates, and 90+ Packaging Regulations in North America.
With Oregon's reporting deadline on March 31st, immediate action is crucial to avoid financial penalties. Reach out to us for more information on getting started and ensure a stress-free, reliable compliance process.
Get Started with Verified Plastic Recovery for your Brand
Get Started with Packaging EPR Compliance for your Brand
rePurpose Global is here to support your sustainability roadmap with impactful and measurable Plastic Action solutions that deliver immediate results. Partner with us to measure your plastic footprint, fund plastic waste recovery, and create strong sustainability messaging for your brand.
Talk to our team to explore how we can work together.
rePurpose Global's EPR compliance platform is here to support you in preparing for the upcoming regulations in multiple states in the US and comply with no errors. Partner with us to create detailed assessment reports, pre-empt fees and reduce time & cost involved in the process.
Talk to our team to explore how we can work together.

Related Posts
Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): What CPG Companies Need to Know
As EPR regulations expand across the U.S., CPG companies must adapt to new compliance, financial, and sustainability challenges. Understand why brands should care and what steps they can take to stay ahead of these regulation - assess packaging impact, track evolving state laws, and optimize for recyclability.
EPR Foundations: What are Material Specific Targets?
Material Specific Targets establish recycling and waste reduction goals for different packaging materials, such as plastics, paper, and glass. These targets guide producers in optimizing packaging design, increasing recyclability, and reducing environmental impact.
EPR Foundations: What does Cost Coverage mean?
Cost Coverage ensures producers fund recycling and waste management programs under EPR laws, shifting financial responsibility from municipalities to businesses. This includes registration fees, material reporting, and program contributions, as well as incentivizing sustainable packaging design and compliance with evolving regulations.