The MPCA is planning new rules to implement and govern regulation of the Packaging Waste and Cost Reduction Act (PWCRA).
The Act requires producers — generally the brand owner, manufacturer, or importer — to appoint and join a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization called a producer responsibility organization, to coordinate and fund the statewide program. The program’s purpose is to reduce the environmental and human health impacts of these materials and benefit all Minnesotans with:
- less packaging overall and toxicity reduction
- more packaging that is refillable, reusable, recyclable, and compostable
- more curbside collection and places to recycle and compost
- reduced costs with producers reimbursing at least 90% of the costs related to refill, reuse, recycling, and composting
- expanded infrastructure and jobs
- investment in public education and clear standards
After Jan. 1, 2032, all packaging, food packaging, and paper products must be one of the following:
- refillable and supported by a refill system
- reusable and managed through a reuse system
- recyclable and collected through a curbside or alternative system
- compostable and collected through a curbside or alternative system
