Rhode Island Senate Bill S2539

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/22
• Refer: 3/1/22

Caption

Refuse Disposal

Impact

The bill has significant implications for waste management and environmental policies in Rhode Island. By mandating recycled content in plastics, the state aims to reduce plastic waste and encourage the use of sustainable materials. This shift reflects a growing trend in environmental legislation to promote circular economies and decrease reliance on virgin plastics. Additionally, the legislation may drive investments in advanced recycling infrastructures and technologies to meet the new requirements.

Summary

S2539 is a bill introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly aimed at amending the refuse disposal laws to include a mandate for recycled plastics in packaging. It establishes definitions for terms related to advanced recycling, which includes processes that convert post-use plastics and recovered feedstocks into new products. The legislation highlights the need for companies to incorporate a minimum of 30% recycled plastics into their annual portfolios for packaging by 2030, proposing a structural change in how plastic waste is managed in the state.

Contention

However, S2539 faces potential contention regarding its economic impact on local businesses and the feasibility of sourcing recycled materials. Critics argue that such mandates could impose financial burdens on producers and raise questions about the availability of sufficient recycled feedstocks. Furthermore, industry stakeholders may express concerns about the definitions and classifications established in the bill, potentially leading to debates about what constitutes acceptable recycled content and compliance.