Minority Reporter Group

With the introduction of Oregon’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law for packaging and printed paper, businesses selling into the state must adapt to a new set of compliance requirements. EPR registration in Oregon is now a key legal obligation for producers, importers, and online retailers whose products generate packaging waste in the state. Understanding the core elements of the law is essential for avoiding penalties and maintaining market access.

Under the Oregon EPR law, producers are responsible for funding and supporting the collection, sorting, and recycling of packaging materials associated with their products. This includes primary and secondary packaging, printed paper, and other consumer-facing materials. Any company placing such items on the Oregon market is now required to register with a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) approved by the state.

Registration deadlines are already in effect, with most producers expected to enroll in a PRO by mid-2025. Companies will also need to begin submitting detailed packaging reports, outlining the types and volumes of packaging materials used, their recyclability, and their end-of-life impact. This reporting obligation will help Oregon assess material flows and improve its statewide recycling system.

Another critical aspect of the law involves design for recyclability. Oregon’s program prioritizes packaging that can be easily sorted and processed by municipal recycling systems. Non-recyclable or difficult-to-process materials may result in higher fees for producers, giving companies a strong incentive to redesign products with sustainability in mind.

E-commerce platforms, marketplaces, and international brands are not exempt. If a product is delivered to an Oregon address, the seller is considered responsible under the law. This includes businesses with no physical presence in the U.S., making global EPR alignment increasingly important.

The PRO will manage producer fees, educational initiatives, and system improvements, acting as a bridge between producers and the state’s environmental goals. To prepare, businesses should audit their packaging, identify recyclable alternatives, and establish internal processes for ongoing data collection and reporting.

Oregon’s EPR law signals a broader shift in U.S. environmental policy. For companies selling packaged goods in the state, early action and accurate reporting will be essential—not only for compliance but for staying ahead in a more sustainability-focused market.