Producers Must Comply with Colorado's EPR Reporting Deadline by July 31

Producers Required to Submit Supply Data for EPR Compliance in Colorado

In a significant move towards sustainability, Colorado's new policy mandates that producers who initiate sales of packaging, paper products, and food serviceware in the state must deliver their supply data to the Circular Action Alliance (CAA) by July 31, 2025. This reporting is not just a formality; it is crucial for complying with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) law and marks a pivotal point in the state's journey to establish a comprehensive, producer-funded recycling system.

Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

The Extended Producer Responsibility law, enacted through the Colorado Producer Responsibility Act, places the onus on producers to manage the lifecycle of their products. Specifically, producers are required to report data detailing the types and amounts of materials they are supplying into the Colorado market. This information is essential to developing the 2026 Colorado Producer Fee Rate Schedule. Effectively, the fee structure will be directly influenced by the actual data submitted by producers, thus ensuring transparency and accountability within the recycling process.

Geoffrey Inch, Senior Vice President of Producer Services at CAA, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Colorado’s new recycling system is driven by producers, and participation of all producers is the foundation for a system that works better for everyone.” As deadlines approach, he urges producers to take swift action to ensure they meet compliance requirements.

The Role of the Circular Action Alliance (CAA)

As the designated Producer Responsibility Organization in Colorado, CAA is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the EPR law. This body is vital in assisting producers with compliance and offering resources to facilitate timely and accurate submission of supply data. They are committed to crafting a framework that not only enhances recycling rates but also promotes a circular economy where materials can be reused rather than disposed of.

Producers concerned about their compliance status or those seeking guidance on how to compile their reports can find useful resources through the CAA's platform. The CAA's Producer Portal provides necessary details and support to all obligated producers, assuring that their reports are both timely and concise.

Implications of Non-Compliance

Failure to submit the required supply data by the designated deadline can lead to serious repercussions. Not only does it jeopardize adherence to state laws, but it also disrupts the ongoing evolution towards efficient recycling practices within Colorado. The data collected is vital to establishing a sustainable financing model for waste management and recycling services across the state, making producers' compliance crucial to the overall success of the EPR framework.

As producers gear up to meet this important deadline, they are encouraged to act quickly and submit their reports without delay. The accuracy and timeliness of these submissions will be instrumental in shaping the future of recycling in Colorado and ensuring responsible waste management practices are upheld.

Learn More

For anyone involved in sales of packaging or related products in Colorado, understanding your role in the state's EPR law implementation is critical. Visit Circular Action Alliance for more information on how to determine if your company qualifies as an obligated producer and to access a wealth of guidance materials to streamline the reporting process. Support is available to assist producers in navigating this transition effectively, underscoring the collective responsibility we share towards sustainability and waste reduction.

As the July 31 deadline looms, proactive action is essential to not only fulfill legal obligations but also to contribute positively to the environmental landscape of Colorado. This initiative represents a remarkable step toward a more sustainable future, affirming Colorado’s commitment to preserving the environment through responsible producer practices.