We always love getting a chance to share good news.
Today, the Maine Board of Environmental Protection finalized the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Packaging rule – a huge victory to reduce wasteful packaging from polluting our environment and to save taxpayers money.
EPR sets up a straightforward system where the producers of packaging are required to help cover the costs of managing their waste. These funds are distributed to towns across Maine, reducing costs for taxpayers and incentivizing companies to eliminate wasteful packaging.
Behind every policy change are the stories of real people and communities that will feel its impact. Hear from community leaders, local business owners, and a youth sustainability advocate below about how EPR will make a difference for them.
Meet Mark Draper from Aroostook Waste Solutions. Cities and towns will receive much-needed resources from the EPR law to improve, maintain, and expand their recycling programs. Hear from Marc how EPR will provide a lifeline to small communities, stabilizing recycling programs and helping the local waste management services survive.
See how local businesses like Allagash Brewing are stepping up. Founding Brewer and Owner Rob Tod shares why producers must take responsibility for their packaging, and their support in making this law a reality.
Maya is a high school student who’s already taken action in her community against single-use plastics. Her common-sense explanation of moving to more sustainable, reusable options embodies the sentiment behind EPR. Solutions like EPR spark hope for the next generation that we can make change.
We couldn’t have done this without action by hundreds of Mainers, dozens of municipalities, and local businesses across Maine.
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