18 May 2016 – Over the last few years, the concept of “circular economy” has gained increased momentum and attention, becoming a buzzword in policy and business circles around the world. A characteristic feature of the circular economy is that natural resources are not disposed of or depleted, but are instead kept in use for as long as possible through their recovery and reuse. This requires, among others, new policies to incentivize companies to implement circular business models, but also to ensure that end-of-life products and materials can be effectively recaptured. And this is where extended producer responsibility (EPR) comes in.
This article, featured in the Ontario Waste Management Association’s bi-weekly newsletter, intends to highlight areas of alignment and differences between what Europe and Ontario’s legislative frameworks are proposing in terms of EPR, and discusses what some of the implications will be for manufacturers if passed into law.
