WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) Vice President of Industry Affairs Terry Webber issued the following statement in response to the Colorado General Assembly passing HB22-1355, which would create an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for paper and packaging products:

“Colorado’s ‘Producer Responsibility Program for Recycling’ ignores the fact that paper recycling is a success. More paper by weight gets recycled from municipal waste streams each year than aluminum, glass, steel and plastic combined.”

“EPR could shift the economic burden of new recycling regulations from municipalities to Coloradans. These added costs would especially hurt small businesses and low-income households.”

“We urge Governor Polis to veto HB22-1355. An EPR scheme is not the right policy approach for sustainable paper products. Colorado should instead focus on addressing underfunded and underdeveloped recycling programs.”

About the American Forest & Paper Association

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative—Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures nearly $300 billion in products annually and employs approximately 950,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $60 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states. Visit AF&PA online at afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper