California seeks partner to lead plastic and packaging waste reduction programme

California seeks partner to lead plastic and packaging waste reduction programme

Business

California is on a mission to revamp its recycling system for single-use packaging and plastic foodware, aiming to significantly reduce plastic waste. CalRecycle is accepting partnership applications until January 1, 2024.

Driven by the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility law (SB 54, Allen), the state is determined to:

  • Cut single-use plastic by 25% (packaging and foodware)
  • Recycle 65% of single-use plastic (packaging and foodware)
  • Ensure 100% recyclability or compostability of all packaging and single-use plastic foodware

This law shifts the onus of plastic pollution onto producers, who must form or join a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) to meet these goals, with oversight from CalRecycle.

Close up of clovers growing around a plastic bottle credit Ivan Radic
Close up of clovers growing around a plastic bottle © Ivan Radic

Producers must either join a PRO by January 1, 2027, or meet the law's requirements and cover their costs directly. Under SB 54, producers will collectively contribute $5 billion over a decade, prioritising disadvantaged areas.

Latest Packaging News

Reusables.com raises $2.6 million to expand smart reusable packaging technology
Business

Reusables.com raises $2.6 million to expand smart reusable packaging technology

Reusables.com has announced the successful closure of a $2.6 million USD (£2.1 million) seed...
Aopack BM2800-Max revolutionises custom box production for e-commerce manufacturer
Supplier News

Aopack BM2800-Max revolutionises custom box production for e-commerce manufacturer

In April 2025, Chinese packaging automation leader Aopack made waves in the industry with the...
Jenton Group: Soken Engineering celebrates a successful Foodex 2025
Supplier News

Jenton Group: Soken Engineering celebrates a successful Foodex 2025

The company’s stand saw significant interest in its range of heat sealing solutions, particularly...
AI-powered paper cup recycling trial launches in Cardiff
Sustainability

AI-powered paper cup recycling trial launches in Cardiff

A new pilot scheme using artificial intelligence to improve paper cup recycling has launched in...
U.S. pet retailers recycle over 30 tonnes of packaging in Earth Day milestone
Sustainability

U.S. pet retailers recycle over 30 tonnes of packaging in Earth Day milestone

To mark Earth Day 2025 (22 April), U.S.-based pet retailers Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N' Wash have...