Maryland is taking steps to reduce waste and improve recycling by shifting more responsibility to the companies that create the products we use every day. This approach is called Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Instead of putting the burden on taxpayers and local governments to manage recyclable materials, this policy makes manufacturers responsible for end-of-life management.

The policy requires producers—such as companies that make packaging, electronics, or paint—to take responsibility for what happens to their products after ​​​consumers are done using them. EPR can be implemented in a few different ways. Typically, manufacturers either invest in recycling infrastructure so taxpayers do not have to, provide free drop-off locations and handle logistics to recycling markets, or both.

The goal is to reduce waste, increase recycling rates, promote reuse, and encourage companies to design products that are less harmful to the environment. When producers are responsible for their waste, they are more likely to make smarter choices about materials and packaging.

Policy Goals

• Less Waste in Landfills: When companies are responsible for their products, they have an incentive to reduce waste and improve recycling. The State of Maryland currently has between 22 and 35 years of landfill capacity.

• Lower Costs for Taxpayers: Instead of local governments and taxpayers paying for waste management, producers cover the cost of recycling.

• More Sustainable Products: Companies may switch to more eco-friendly packaging and materials to lower costs and meet recycling goals.

• Fewer Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Recycling and reusing materials reduce emissions compared to extraction.

• Cleaner Communities: These programs can help reduce litter, plastic pollution, and illegal dumping.