You learned about Oregon EPR requirements in Part 1. Now, let’s talk about what you can do. Here’s the good news: EPR creates challenges, but it also creates opportunities. Smart companies can turn these rules into competitive advantages.
First, let’s understand how EPR compliance strategy affects your business. There are three main areas to focus on:
1. Direct Costs: Starting July 2025, every package costs money. Different materials have different fees. For example, foam trays cost more than PET trays. This means you need to choose packaging carefully.
2. Supply Chain Changes: When fees vary by material, companies will switch to cheaper options. This is called “material optimization.” Simply put, businesses will choose sustainable packaging to save money.
3. Data Systems: You need to track every package you use. This requires new software or upgrades to current systems. Additionally, you’ll need detailed reports twice per year.
Looking ahead, Oregon will fine-tune fees in 2026 or 2027. This means sustainable packaging will become even more cost-effective. Therefore, switching now makes financial sense.
Here’s why PET thermoforms work well for EPR compliance strategy:
Easy to Recycle: PET has the #1 recycling code. Most cities accept it in curbside programs. As a result, EPR fees for PET are lower than other materials.
Strong Performance: Modern PET trays are tough and durable. Furthermore, they work with existing packaging equipment. This means you don’t need to change your whole operation.
Stable Costs: PET fees should stay predictable over time. In contrast, materials like foam may face higher fees as regulations get stricter.
Customer Appeal: Clear PET trays let customers see products easily. Plus, consumers prefer sustainable packaging. This combination helps sales.
The best companies are preparing now, not waiting until 2025. Here’s what you should do:
Start Today: First, list all your current packaging. Include material types and weights. Next, check if your systems can track this data accurately.
Plan Ahead: Look for packaging that performs well and costs less under EPR rules. This is especially important for high-volume products.
Find Partners: Work with suppliers who understand EPR compliance strategy. They should provide both good products and the data you need for reports.
EPR creates new costs, but it also levels the playing field. In the past, less sustainable options were often cheaper. Now, EPR fees can eliminate these cost differences.
Companies that switch to sustainable packaging early may gain advantages. They’ll also be ready when other states follow Oregon’s lead.
Oregon’s EPR program is just the beginning. Other states will likely create similar rules. Therefore, the changes affect more than just Oregon businesses.
Start preparing now. First, audit your packaging. Then, check your data systems. Finally, explore sustainable options like PET thermoforms.
At Clearly Clean, we help food retailers succeed with EPR compliance strategy. Our recyclable PET thermoform trays offer the performance you need and the sustainability regulators want.
Ready to turn EPR compliance into competitive advantage? Contact Clearly Clean today to discuss solutions for your business.