One of the most systematic ways to see real change on plastic pollution is through legislation. Whether it’s a full ban on single-use plastics or an extended producer responsibility (EPR) bill, smart policy reduces pollution immediately and, in the long term, reduces demand for plastic production which contributes to global climate change. This is critical at a time when microplastics have been discovered everywhere, from the deepest trenches of the ocean to our water supply and the meat and milk of farm animals (which we then eat).

Click here to check out our new interactive United States Packaging Legislation Map!

But statewide legislation is a dynamic landscape with lots of moving parts and jargon. So, we rolled up our sleeves and put in the hard work, so you don’t have to. This #PlasticFreeJuly, we synthesized all active statewide legislation combatting single-use plastics and expanded polystyrene into an interactive map that we will continue to update as new legislation passes.

Here are two recent highlights:

1.) California just passed the toughest bill on plastics. Known as SB 54, California Governor Gavin Newsom recently passed a new bill focused on addressing single-use plastic packaging. It requires 100% of packaging to be recyclable or compostable by 2032 and packaging makers help pay for the cost of recycling and composting packaging waste.

2.) Colorado passed a sustainable packaging bill that will help grow composting. The state became the third in the nation to pass an Extended Producer Responsibility bill but was one of the first to have composters well-represented through its development. Through dues, packaging and printed paper producers will help finance a statewide recycling and composting.

We hope this map will continue to be a resource for you. Got any suggestions or ideas? Let us know!