Supporting and Advocating EPR Collectively to Tackle Plastic Pollution
A Joint Commitment from the Producer Responsibility Coalition
In August 2025, negotiations in Geneva for a global treaty on plastic pollution ended without consensus. While disappointing, this outcome does not mark the end of the journey. The Producer Responsibility Coalition — a global alliance of 50 Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) — remains firmly committed to advancing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) as a cornerstone of the solution.
Mobilised by Citeo, the Coalition has actively engaged in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) process, advocating for EPR as a practical, scalable tool that supports eco-design, waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and public awareness. EPR assigns responsibility for post-consumer waste to producers, encouraging sustainable product design and funding robust waste management systems.
Why EPR Matters
EPR is not just a policy concept — it’s a proven mechanism that delivers measurable environmental outcomes. It enables:
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Dedicated and sustainable financing through producer fees
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Clear legal frameworks and measurable targets
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Flexibility to adapt to local economic, industrial, and cultural contexts
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Integration of informal waste workers to ensure inclusion and fair working conditions
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Strategic coordination through PROs to ensure transparency and performance
These principles are essential to ensure EPR systems are effective, inclusive, and aligned with circular economy goals.
Beyond the Treaty: A Global Commitment
Regardless of the outcome of future treaty negotiations, the Coalition will continue its advocacy across international platforms, regional dialogues, and multilateral initiatives. It will work alongside networks such as EXPRA, PROsPA, PREVENT Waste Alliance, and other regional PROs to share expertise, support implementation, and amplify successful models.
This joint paper marks a renewed collective commitment: to make EPR a global reality and a central pillar in the fight against plastic pollution.