Waste Packaging and Paper Products Needs Assessment Bill Approved by Hawaii Legislature
Findings from the needs assessment would be submitted to the Hawaii Legislature by December 31, 2027.

Montana Legislature Approves Ban on Polystyrene Foam Food Service Containers
The ban will take effect on January 1, 2028 unless the bill is vetoed by the governor.

Hawaii Legislature Approves Bill to Establish an Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling Working Group
The working group will present a report of its findings to the Hawaii Legislature prior to the start of its 2027 session.

Time about to Run Out on Colorado Battery Stewardship Bill
The Colorado General Assembly adjourns its 2025 session on May 7.

Dedicated Circular Economy Fund Proposed in Michigan Senate
A circular economy institute would be established at Michigan State University.

Companion Bills in New York State Legislature Would Permit Food Service Providers to Fill Reusable Customer-Provided Containers
Customers could bring their own beverage containers for filling and bring home "leftovers" from food establishments in their own food containers.

Connecticut General Assembly Bill Would Ban Government Purchases of Polystyrene Foam Packaging and Some Single-Use Plastic Food Service Items
The ban would apply at both the state and local government levels.

Delaware Lawmakers Propose Reducing More Food Service Waste through the Skip the Stuff Act
The restrictions would apply to food service providers and "third-party food delivery platforms."

European Commission Releases Working Plan for Ecodesign for Sustainable Products and Energy Labelling Regulations
The working plan begins this year and continues through 2030.

Bill Introduced in Brazilian Camara Would Place Requirements on Plastics Made in or Imported into the Country
The bill's author is concerned about toxic substances affecting human health and the environment.

New South Wales EPA Is Considering Changes to the State's Energy-From-Waste Regulations
The EPA published a policy options paper and launched a public consultation to facilitate input.

European Chemicals Agency Issues Reporting Requirements for Manufacturers and Users of Microplastic Particles
The first data submissions to ECHA must be completed by May 31, 2026.

Bill Progressing in French Parliament Would Make Lithium Battery Producers and EPR Schemes More Responsible for Preventing Fires at Waste Facilities
The French National Assembly is considering the Senate-approved resolution.

Regulatory Developments:

• Norwegian Parliament Plans to Enact New Food Waste Reduction Law in 2025

Statistics and Trends:

• California Prepares to Expand Network of Beverage Container Redemption Centers
• European Commission Announces That Nearly 100,000 Products Have Been Certified for Use of the EU Eco-Labe
• Connecticut DEEP Announces $15 Million in Grants to Support Materials Management Infrastructure
• Recent EEA Briefing Raises Concern about PFAS Contamination of EU Textile Recycling Stream
• Hong Kong EPD Says Prepared Food Businesses Are Successfully Transitioning from Single-Use Plastic
• Only 53% of Irish Residents Understand What Can Be Recycled Says Packaging Compliance Scheme
• Most Portugese MSW Was Landfilled in 2022, According to Latest Government Annual Report
• US Food Service Packaging Institute Publishes Study on Compostable Food Packaging Strategies