SB54 - Plastic Pollution Prevention Act In California

California's SB 54, also known as the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, was signed into law in 2022 and sets ambitious targets for single-use packaging and plastic food service ware in California to be met by 2032, including:

• 100% of packaging must be recyclable or compostable.
• A 25% reduction in the sale of single-use plastic packaging. This can be achieved through various methods, including eliminating unnecessary packaging or transitioning to reusable or refillable systems.
• A 65% recycling rate for all single-use plastic packaging.

When Do Businesses Need to Respond to SB54?

SB54 was signed into law in 2022 and must be fully met by 2032 in California.

SB54 is applicable to ‘covered materials’ including single-use plastic packaging that is not refilled or reused and plastic single-use food-service ware (trays, plates, bowls, utensils, straws, and wraps). The law holds a wide range of companies accountable, from the manufacturers to the retailers who sell the products. Essentially, if your brand is involved in any way with single-use plastic packaging or food-service items sold in California, you are considered a "producer" under this law.