Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Support
Reduce fees. Increase compliance. Improve sustainability.
EPR legislation is changing the way producers manage packaging waste—shifting financial responsibility to the companies who place packaging on the market. Fortunately, Group O can help. Our packaging solutions and services are designed to lower your EPR fees through smarter material choices, improved recyclability, and packaging optimization. Below you’ll find how each of our core services contributes to eco-modulation, the fee-adjustment mechanism used in EPR programs to reward sustainable packaging design.
Choose materials that qualify for fee reductions.
Many EPR programs lower fees for packaging that includes post-consumer recycled (PCR) content, is recyclable, reusable, or sourced from renewable inputs. Group O offers a wide range of sustainable alternatives, including recyclable films, compostable options, and high-PCR materials that help you stay ahead of legislation while cutting EPR costs.
Reduce weight and eliminate unnecessary components.
Our SMART Audit® identifies opportunities to reduce stretch film materials, improve load containment and reduce product damage—leading to lower EPR fees in states with eco-modulation. We focus on minimizing overpackaging, reducing material usage, and eliminating non-recyclables.
Quantify your impact. Justify your reductions.
Life Cycle Assessments are increasingly used in eco-modulation frameworks—especially in states like Oregon—to determine packaging’s full environmental footprint. Group O performs LCAs to help producers evaluate and document packaging impacts from raw material sourcing to end-of-life. These insights not only support regulatory compliance but also help unlock reduced EPR fees through evidence-backed design improvements.
Design smarter, lighter packaging.
Flexible formats often reduce transportation emissions and material use. When designed for recyclability or with PCR content, they can qualify for EPR fee bonuses. Group O helps clients develop structures that meet both functional needs and eco-modulation standards.
Replace foam and mixed materials with recyclable, eco-modulated solutions.
EPR programs may penalize hard-to-recycle materials or those containing toxics. We offer recyclable cushioning, paper-based void fill, and non-toxic corrosion protection alternatives that help reduce fee “malus” charges.
Combine safety with smarter materials.
Group O can help you replace multi-layer, non-recyclable security solutions with PCR-based or recyclable tamper-evident bands, tapes, and seals—supporting compliance and lower EPR fees.
Sustainable stability from warehouse to last mile.
From stretch films with PCR content to recyclable edge protectors and strapping, we help you improve transport efficiency while meeting EPR criteria for recyclability and reduction. We offer 100% recycled options for cornerboard, paperboard, and corrugated materials, along with a wide range of recyclable load containment solutions that support eco-modulated compliance and cost savings.
Secure packaging using eco-conscious adhesives and tapes.
Our sealing materials—including recyclable water-based adhesives, Kraft paper adhesive tape, and hot melt tapes with PCR content—minimize environmental impact and support easier downstream recycling. Many of our solutions are designed to remain on corrugated packaging during the recycling process, helping you meet EPR requirements and avoid eco-modulation penalties tied to hazardous or non-recyclable materials.
Get compliant with EPR labeling standards.
Improper or missing recycling instructions can lead to EPR penalties. Group O offers labeling solutions including How2Recycle®-compatible designs, clear end-of-life disposal instructions, and labels with post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. These options not only support compliance but may also qualify you for eco-modulation fee reductions or bonuses in certain states.
Design for efficiency, repeatability, and material savings.
Our systems—from robotic palletizing to automated bagging—reduce waste and allow consistent material usage, which can support source reduction and lightweighting efforts. Combined with our packaging services, you can proactively design for lower EPR liability.
Engineer packaging with the end in mind.
Group O’s design and testing teams collaborate with you to create packaging that meets ISTA performance standards, maximizes material recovery, and considers eco-modulation factors from the outset—including PCR content, recyclability, and end-of-life processing.
EPR Resource: CAA
As of 2025, Circular Action Alliance (CAA) is the only approved Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) implementing U.S. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws for paper and packaging. Founded in 2022 by leading producers across food, beverage, consumer goods, and retail sectors, CAA provides streamlined compliance services and advocates for harmonized recycling systems. As a nonprofit, CAA partners with governments, businesses, and communities to reduce waste, improve recycling infrastructure, and ensure a fair, transparent system. CAA currently operates as the sole PRO in California, Colorado, Minnesota, and Oregon, and represents producers on Maryland’s advisory council for EPR.
EPR Resource: SPC
The Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) is a membership-based collaborative that brings together stakeholders across the packaging value chain to drive progress in sustainable packaging. Group O is a proud member. As the leading voice on packaging sustainability, SPC focuses on innovation, policy, recovery, and packaging design to promote solutions that benefit both people and the environment. Through research, education, and advocacy, SPC helps industry members navigate evolving regulations—such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)—and supports actionable improvements. Its Packaging EPR Collaborative, including resources like the Eco-Modulation Overview, empowers producers to make informed decisions that reduce environmental impact and align with circular economy goals.
Let's Make an Impact on Your EPR Challenges
From our SMART Audit® and sustainable materials to automation and design, Group O is your partner in navigating the complexities of EPR. We’ll help you reduce waste and reduce fees.
READ MORE: The Top Five Packaging Design Changes That Lower EPR Fees
