In this episode of the Plastic Recycling Podcast, we sit down with Marissa Heffernan, editor of Policy Now, to explore the policies reshaping the recycling and packaging industries.

Marissa dives into the transformative impact of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Deposit Return Schemes (DRS), and eco-modulation—highlighting how these policies are driving accountability, innovation, and sustainability in packaging.

🎙 Key Highlights:

• How EPR shifts the responsibility for waste management from municipalities to producers
• Why eco-modulation is incentivizing brands to design more recyclable packaging
• How modern DRS programs are boosting recycling rates and ensuring access to
  recycled materials like rPET
• The role of producers in leading change and advocating for better recycling systems
• The growing impact of technology and infrastructure investments on recycling efficiency

Whether you’re a business using recycled materials like rPET or someone passionate about sustainability, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:34 Key Policy Trends in Recycling

01:55 State-Level Policy Developments

06:54 Understanding EPR, DRS, and Eco Modulation

10:25 Administering and Monitoring EPR

16:49 Impact and Future of EPR and Eco Modulation

21:54 Deposit Return Schemes: Overview and Impact

26:42 Future Outlook and Conclusion