CA SB 707: First Textile Extended Producer Responsibility Program in US

California is leading the way, again. In a major move for waste management and sustainability, California has passed several bills focused on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), organic waste and packaging, impacting waste and recycling industries. SB 707 introduces Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, holding manufacturers accountable for the life-cycle of their products through end of life disposal. This includes creating a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) overseeing the collection, recycling, or disposal of products at the end of their life-cycle, including management of PFAS ("forever chemicals") in products . This will be a crucial step in driving circular economy practices and encouraging producers from the design stage to consider recycle, reuse, or safe disposal of their products.

If the bill is signed into law (expecting final decision by the Governor by Sept 30th), CalRecycle is expected to be implemented by July 1, 2028, requiring PROs to submit a plan for collection, repair and recycling of textiles by July 1, 2030. 

See more details and other notable bills updated or passed in the article.

If you need support Intertek offers solutions for clients to navigate the requirements of EPR, assist implementation, and provide tailored solutions when needed. Other programs like Zero Waste to Landfill promote responsible and clean manufacturing practices and provide impoved credibility and visibility for producers interested in systems to increase waste diversion, efficiency, and recycling capabilities​.