Washington
In 2025, Washington State enacted the Recycling Reform Act (SB 5284) creating an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for packaging and paper products. The program is slated to begin in 2030. The provisions of law include:
- Producers of covered materials must register and pay fees to a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO).
- The PRO will cover at least 90% of the cost for collection and processing of materials through reimbursing local governments and private solid waste service providers.
- The PRO will provide infrastructure grants for packaging reuse and refill stations.
- Public education on how to recycle within the system will be provided by the PRO.
End markets must responsibly recycle materials.
What it Means for Producers of Petroleum, Lubricants, and Automotive Products
While the state is not scheduled to publish collection lists until October 2026, producers of materials on LPMA’s Applicable Products List should anticipate being obligated under the Recycling Reform Act unless otherwise exempt from the law.
LPMA Program
LPMA notified the Washington State Department of Ecology of its intent to petition to establish an Alternation Collection Program (ACP) as outlined under the law. It is LPMA’s goal to operate as an independent organization on behalf of producers of petroleum, lubricants, and automotive products that delivers industry-driven solutions that meet the requirements of the law, the best environmental outcomes, and serves the business interests of all participants.
LPMA will continue to work with regulators, industry experts, and other stakeholders throughout the rulemaking process to determine the best way forward for achieving this goal.
Timeline
Important Documents:
Department of Ecology – The Recycling Reform Act and Extended Producer Responsibility