Policy/Legislative Development
There is good policy - and then there is getting good policy adopted. Our seasoned team has experience with both policy development and process. We know how and when to listen, advocate, compromise, question, create, and support. Also, recognizing what lines not to cross is pretty important.
PROJECT EXAMPLES
Carpet Recyclers Coalition: A group of carpet recyclers sought to introduce extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation to improve the collection and processing infrastructure for carpet in New York State. The team researched and modeled the environmental and economic impacts of carpet EPR, and based on the research, created fact sheets and infographics to support a campaign to build momentum around developing carpet EPR legislation in New York State. The team helped to develop the carpet EPR legislation and gathered support from local government organizations and environmental NGOs, leading to the introduction of Bill #S05027 to the New York State Senate in February 2021. The bill passed the New York State Senate on June 8, 2021.
This work was conducted by Resa Dimino and a team with RRS.
Interface: Interface sought to develop a model extended producer responsibility (EPR) policy for carpet. The team worked collaboratively with the California Product Stewardship Council and its affiliated National Stewardship Action Council. This project explored the needs of the key stakeholders – carpet generators, recyclers, and end users – to determine desired outcomes.
Evaluated Carpet EPR in California
Evaluated Voluntary Programs and Legislative Proposals in Other States
Identified Set of Legislative Provisions to Best Meet Stakeholder Needs, Achieve Desired Outcomes, and Create a Stable, Sustainable Carpet Recovery Infrastructure
Using this work, Interface hopes to achieve legislative approval of such a policy in a number of U.S. states and Canadian provinces.
This work was conducted by Garth Hickle and a team with RRS.
Washington State Department of Ecology: State legislators set a 2025 goal for all packaging sold in Washington to be 100% recyclable, reusable, or compostable; this packaging should contain at least 20% postconsumer recycled material. The product studied plastic packaging in Washington.
Researched existing management programs, policies, and technological innovations to reduce, reuse, recycle, or compost plastic.
Analyzed recycled-content use in Washington-based manufacturing.
Developed policy recommendations.
Designed and supported public engagement process including packaging producers, solid waste management providers, local government, and other key stakeholders.
This work was conducted by David Stitzhal with Full Circle Environmental as a subcontractor to Cascadia Consulting Group.