A new recycling bill in New York mandates that many businesses stop using plastic wrap in their product packaging. Critics argue that this could result in items like diapers and toilet paper getting wet.
The proposed Container and Packaging Reduction and Recycling Basic Law requires companies with net incomes over $5 million to phase out toxic or non-reusable packaging, opting instead for sustainable alternatives.
Other states, including Maryland, Maine, Oregon, Colorado, California, and Minnesota, have rolled out similar green packaging initiatives. Some countries are also on board with these changes.
New Yorkers, on average, generate about 5 pounds of trash daily.
Under the new law, manufacturers must reduce the use of non-eco-friendly packaging by 10% within three years and 30% within 12 years.
By 2032, at least 5% of packaging must be reusable or refillable, increasing to 10% by 2040 and 20% by 2055. Likewise, the goal is to have at least 25% of packaging recyclable by 2032, with this figure rising to 50% and then 75% in 2040 and 2055, respectively.
“New York State needs to act to meet our environmental responsibilities,” states a memo supporting the bill from state Rep. Deborah Glick (D-Manhattan) and state Sen. Peter Harckham (D-Peekskill).
The memo notes that the law would shift the burden of recycling and waste transportation from municipalities and residents onto producers, making them responsible for adopting sustainable packaging solutions.
Companies that fail to comply with the new regulations might face penalties, with proceeds directed toward recycling initiatives.
However, some in the packaging industry, including supermarkets, express concerns that switching from plastic to paper could compromise the protective quality, resulting in products getting wet.
Dan Felton, president of the Flexible Packaging Association, commented, “Without adequate plastic film protection, essential items like toilet paper and diapers may be left unsanitary and exposed to damage.”
He stressed that while improvements in recycling are necessary, public policy should also prevent rising costs and maintain essential protective packaging materials for public health.
Nelson Eusebio, from the National Supermarket Association, added, “Even minor adjustments to packaging policies can lead to increased expenses for families in working-class neighborhoods.”
He also noted that as changes unfold without viable alternatives, the costs will ripple through the supply chain, ultimately impacting consumer prices.
A similar proposal passed the state Senate last year but stalled in the Assembly due to pushback from plastic manufacturers.
As these pro-recycling measures develop, Gov. Kathy Hochul is currently negotiating with lawmakers to adjust deadlines for strict mandates set under the 2019 climate change law, which aims to shift energy production from fossil fuels to renewable sources like solar and wind.
Representatives Harkham and Glick mentioned that they’ve significantly revised the bill, making 150 distinct amendments, including extended compliance deadlines.
“Despite the growing solid waste and pollution crisis in New York, the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act offers a practical solution that must pass this year,” Glick said.
Harkham added that the bill has incorporated industry feedback in its updates.
“We’ve reached a compromise through these amendments, and our goal now is to achieve the necessary approvals to save New Yorkers money while also protecting the environment,” he stated.
The bill has garnered support from numerous environmental organizations and the state’s counties, highlighting that excessive plastic use is overwhelming limited landfill resources.
Judith Enck, founder of Beyond Plastics and former EPA regional administrator, expressed concern, stating, “New Yorkers are inundated with plastic waste, and for too long, taxpayers have borne the financial burden while large corporations continue to pollute our communities.”
She acknowledged the amendments as significant for the plastics industry but emphasized that the essence of the bill remains crucial and needed. “Inaction is simply not an option anymore.”
