Product Stewardship Framework is an alternative approach to introducing individual laws that address specific products that are toxic, hazardous or otherwise don't fit within the current solid waste managment system such as electronics and batteries. The framework legislation approach establishes consistent principles, clearly defined roles for all parties, and a transparent and defined process for adding new product types.
Below are several variations of framework principles adopted by various organizations and government entities:
Reusable Packaging Association Product Stewardship Policy and Framework Principles
The Reusable Packaging Association approved a position statement on Product Stewardship Policy and Framework Principles in January 2010. (PDF file, 27 KB)
Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials Product Stewardship Framework Policy Document
The Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO) released a framework policy document in October 2009. (PDF file, 60 KB)
Framework Principles for Product Stewardship Policy
In 2008, the Northwest Product Stewardship Council and California Product Stewardship Council released joint Framework Principles for Product Stewardship Policy (PDF file, 92KB). Since that time, the Vermont Product Stewardship Council, British Columbia Product Stewardship Council, Texas Product Stewardship Council, and the New York State Association for Solid Waste Management have adopted the principles. The principles are intended to guide development of product stewardship policies and legislation that governs multiple products. They are primarily aimed at state legislation but are also intended as a guide for local and federal policy. The Framework Principles are also available in Spanish(PDF file, 166 KB).
National Association of Counties Adopts EPR Resolution
The National Association of Counties adopted a 2008 resolution supporting an Extended Producer Responsibility Framework Approach (PDF file, 11KB), which creates effective producer-lead reduction, reuse and recycling programs, to deal with a product’s lifecycle impacts from design through end of life management, without relying solely on state and local governments. In addition, the resolution specifically addresses mercury containing fluorescent lamps, electronic waste and paint.
Product Stewardship in Canada: Legislative Framework of Provincial Programs (PDF file, 1.42MB)
The NWPSC published a descriptive review of stewardship programs, legislation and regulations of each of the Canadian provinces. Several Canadian provinces have framework legislation that establishes a process for the selection of products and involvment by stakeholders in the implementation of product stewardship systems. Product Stewardship in Canada: Legislative Framework of Provincial Programs (PDF file, 1.42MB)