Latest PCR Regulations by State

Assembly Bill 793 establishes important plastic recycling regulations for plastic beverage containers that are subject to the California Refund Value (CRV). This law mandates a postconsumer recycled content (PCR) standard of 15% starting January 1, 2022, increasing to 25% on January 1, 2025, and reaching 50% by January 1, 2030. Additionally, at least 75 percent of the total dollars spent must be allocated to purchasing products with postconsumer recycled content, which need to contain a minimum of 20% postconsumer recycled material, in accordance with state PCR laws (calrecycle.ca.gov).

PCR content is identified as a crucial element in establishing the criteria for the graduated fee structure under the state PCR laws. Local governments are required to include 10% postconsumer recycled content in the roll carts, bins, and containers purchased by service providers, validated by an independent verification standard like the Postconsumer Resin Certification Program established by the Association of Plastic Recyclers. These plastic recycling regulations will take effect starting July 1, 2025 (ACRC).

Beginning in 2023, plastic recycling regulations mandate that plastic beverage containers contain at least 15 percent postconsumer recycled content, increasing to 25 percent by 2026, and reaching up to 50 percent by 2031. Plastic trash bags will start at 10 percent in 2023, moving to 15 percent in 2025 and 20 percent by 2027. According to state PCR laws, plastic dairy milk containers will have their recycled content set at 15 percent starting in 2028, escalating to 25 percent in 2031, and 50 percent in 2036. Additionally, household cleaning and personal care products are required to begin with 15 percent recycled content in 2025, with milestones of 25 percent in 2028 and 50 percent by 2031 (Department of Ecology, State of Washington).

Minimum postconsumer recycled content (PCR) rates will be proposed by the Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) as part of the plastic recycling regulations outlined in the program plan. A timeline and funding mechanisms will be established for targets set for 2030, 2035, and beyond, in line with state PCR laws. A high level of PCR is noted as one of the incentives to reduce fees under eco-modulation. Implementation is expected in early 2026 (HB1355) (ACRC).

Plastic rigid containers are expected to comply with plastic recycling regulations, requiring 10% postconsumer recycled content by 2024, with increases of 10% every three years until reaching 50%. For plastic beverage containers, the standard is 15% by 2024, with annual increments of 5% leading up to 50%. Additionally, for plastic carry-out bags and trash bags, state PCR laws dictate a requirement of 20% recycled content by 2024, increasing to 40% by 2027, respectively (SB2515) (ACRC).

Minimum rates for plastic beverage containers under new plastic recycling regulations will start at 25% by January 2026 and increase to 30% by January 2031. The implementation of state PCR laws will introduce eco-modulation fees during rule-making, with recycled content from postconsumer sources considered as a potential incentive. Full implementation is anticipated by 2026 (LD1541) (ACRC).