In this episode of "Beyond the Shelf: the Product & Packaging Podcast," Laura Foti talks with Dan Felton, the Executive Director of the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment (AMERIPEN). With over 20 years of experience in US government affairs, representing multinational corporations and various coalitions, Dan provided invaluable insights into the complexities and evolving landscape of packaging regulations and environmental sustainability as it is seen through the eyes of both policy makers and packaging industry experts.
Below are some highlights from the conversation – you can listen to the full audio on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Soundcloud. Be sure to subscribe to our channel to get the latest episodes as soon as they drop.
AMERIPEN's Mission
Founded 14 years ago to address a gap in policy and advocacy for the packaging industry, AMERIPEN represents a diverse membership that spans from material suppliers to recyclers. AMERIPEN is committed to being "material-inclusive," advocating for all types of packaging materials including glass, plastics, aluminum, steel, paper, and more. As an organization made up of policy makers and government relations as well as packaging designers and engineers, this broad representation ensures comprehensive policy development that considers all aspects of packaging materials.
Regulatory Challenges in Packaging
As experts in policy when it comes to the packaging industry, regulatory challenges businesses face today, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), are a significant focus for AMERIPEN. Although EPR is not a new concept globally—having been implemented in Europe since 1991—it has recently gained traction in the United States. The first EPR laws were enacted in the US were instilled three years ago, and there are now five laws being implemented across different states.
Felton explained that several factors have contributed to this shift towards EPR in the US:
- Increased Packaging Due to COVID-19: The pandemic led to a surge in consumer packaging waste.
- Policy Focus on Specific Materials: There has been heightened legislative attention on materials like plastics.
- Global Trends: Practices adopted in Europe and Canada often influence US policies.
Financial Implications and Global Influence
Not only does EPR come with various action items, but there are financial implications associated with EPR as well. In Europe, fines and taxes related to EPR have become more prevalent, adding an economic dimension that encourages compliance. However, these financial drivers are becoming increasingly influential in shaping US policies as well.
Moreover, global market trends often see innovations starting in regions like Europe or Canada before making their way to the US. Policymakers. These policymakers observe international practices and adapt them domestically, especially when it comes to plastic waste management.
State-Level Complexity
The complexity introduced by state-level regulations cannot be overstated. Unlike other countries with centralized systems for managing solid waste, the United States delegates this authority primarily to state and local governments. This results in a fragmented system where recycling practices can vary significantly even between neighboring counties or cities.
This patchwork approach complicates efforts to create cohesive national strategies for managing packaging waste effectively under EPR frameworks.
Importance of Industry Participation
Felton emphasized the importance of having industry experts at the table during policymaking discussions. Policymakers often lack subject matter expertise on technical issues such as material science or engineering principles related to packaging design and recycling processes.
Industry participation ensures:
- Accurate Information: Experts provide critical insights into what materials can be recycled efficiently.
- Practical Solutions: Realistic approaches are developed based on existing infrastructure capabilities.
- Innovation Encouragement: Collaboration fosters innovative solutions that balance environmental goals with economic feasibility.
For example, developing statewide recycling lists requires input from brand owners who understand current market dynamics as well as recyclers who manage end-of-life processing capabilities.
Addressing Future Sustainability and Regulatory Trends in the Packaging Industry
While it is important to tackle issues that are pressing at the current moment, looking ahead to the future is invaluable when it comes to setting your business up for success.
- Data Aggregation and Collection: Felton emphasizes the importance of data when it comes to new regulations and sustainability pressures popping up. Understanding your data is larger than simply addressing EPR regulations, though data is necessary in order to address these laws.
- Requirements and Labeling: Understanding the requirements around recyclability, compostability, and reusability in general and then being able to label products properly and make accurate claims is becoming increasingly important.
- Toxins in Packaging: Knowing exactly what your packaging is made out of is crucial for future success. Toxins, chemicals, additives, and others in packaging is a renewed conversation that will continue to be prevalent.
Conclusion
This episode offered a deep dive into pressing issues within today's packaging industry—from navigating regulatory landscapes influenced by global trends to addressing state-level complexities through collaborative efforts that involve multiple diverse stakeholders.
As we move forward amidst evolving environmental challenges coupled with technological advancements shaping future regulations around sustainable practices—industry engagement remains crucial for driving meaningful and sustainable change.
Listen to the full podcast episode here for more valuable insights, and connect with Dan Felton on LinkedIn here.
To listen to more episodes of Beyond the Shelf, click here.
