In 1994, an OECD project on EPR was initiated, focusing particularly on programmes to address what many regard as the “weakest link” in the product responsibility chain: the final disposal of products after their sale to and use by consumers. The overall themes of each phase under the EPR Project are: Phase 1 Review of legal and administrative approaches in OECD Member countries and development of initial policy options for EPR programmes (1994-1995); Phase 2 Analysis of economic efficiency and environmental effectiveness of various approaches to EPR (1996-1997); and Phase 3 Examination of EPR approaches and issues through a series of multi-stakeholder workshops, culminating with a joint workshop combining efforts under EPR and Waste Minimisation OECD work programmes. Synergies are expected and the workshop results will serve as a basis for the development of comprehensive policy options in the form of guidance manual for governments (1998-1999). The Phase 1 Report was based on extensive interviews and information gathered across the OECD area and was published in 1996 (OECD Environment Monographs No. 114, OCDE/GD(96)48). Phase 2 consists of four areas: a) in-depth case studies on existing EPR systems, b) possible trade implications, c) economic analysis of EPR options, and d) development of an overall ‘Phase 2 Framework Report’ for implementing EPR programmes with a particular focus on the policy and legal considerations for sharing responsibility. The attached study is the Framework Report for all of Phase 2.