Pack Expo 2026: US EPR patchwork pushes packaging industry toward redesign
The US packaging industry is entering a period of significant regulatory change, highlighted industry experts at Pack Expo 2026 in Chicago. More states are expected to introduce packaging EPR legislation in the coming year, but the lack of a unified federal framework means the industry will continue to navigate different requirements and approaches.
California’s SB 54 [EPR regulation] is the big driver because California is such a big economy. While Maine, Minnesota, Oregon, Colorado, and other states have their EPR laws, everyone is trying to understand what California is going to require so they can be compliant.
“We need brands and companies to create demand so that recyclers can financially justify collecting the material and building clean recycling facilities,” she says, describing the situation as a “chicken-and-egg” problem. She adds: “I do think laws and legislation in different states will be the impetus that gets things moving.” Kristin Oyler, director of marketing at Mondi
Pack Expo 2026: US EPR patchwork pushes packaging industry toward redesign