The Consumer Goods Forum’s Plastic Waste Coalition of Action has published new guidance on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where waste systems often face systemic challenges.
The paper, EPR for Packaging: Design and Implementation in Low-and Middle-Income Countries, builds on the CGF’s Principles for Optimal EPR Design, published in 2022, and addresses some of the specific challenges faced by LMICs, including limited solid waste infrastructure, complex institutional landscapes, and the critical role of workers from the large informal waste sector.
It seeks to underscore EPR as a ‘key tool’ in tackling packaging waste and plastic pollution, provided the sufficient waste and recycling systems are in place.
Established in 2020, the CGF’s Plastic Waste Coalition represents over 40 retailers, manufacturers, and packaging producers, which together represent around 10% of global packaging volumes.
‘Advancing circularity’
“EPR systems have proven to be a powerful tool in advancing circularity in packaging, but their success in LMICs hinges on inclusive, well-funded, and context-aware design,” commented Cédric Dever, director, Plastic Waste at The Consumer Goods Forum.
“This guidance is the result of deep collaboration between industry leaders, local experts, and partners such as the Fair Circularity Initiative, and we hope it will help create EPR systems that are both effective and equitable.”
Areas of focus
The paper identifies six core elements for effective EPR systems, with particular emphasis on three areas of particular complexity.
- Institutions: The paper recommends a professional, not-for-profit central body governed by producers to manage and implement the EPR system, ensuring all key functions are fulfilled.
- Infrastructure: EPR schemes should attract public and private investment to address gaps in waste collection and recycling, providing long-term service revenues and contracts.
- Integration of the informal sector: The paper outlines principles to involve waste pickers in governance, secure fair compensation, and facilitate collaboration with formal waste organisations.
“Well-designed EPR systems can be an effective way to boost recycling and drive infrastructure investment,” added Anke Boykin, senior director, global environmental policy, PepsiCo. “We recognise that one size does not fit all.
“This guidance aims to accelerate EPR in markets with diverse waste management conditions, including those where waste pickers play a critical role. PepsiCo is proud to have contributed to this work and aims to help shape inclusive EPR programs that can deliver positive environmental outcomes and help livelihoods at scale.” Read more here.
