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EPR Reference Database

Publication type: Book Chapter

Approaches to Extended Producer Responsibility: Fostering Sustainable Consumption and Circular Economy

Abstract/summary

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has surfaced as a groundbreaking policy mechanism, directing sustainable consumption by shifting the product’s lifecycle accountability to producers. As global economies face increasing waste generation, resource depletion, and environmental degradation with a throwaway consumer culture, EPR is emerging as a critical enabler of circular economy transitions. The study deploys the Descriptive Analytical Literature Review method to critically analyze the evolution, challenges, and future potential of EPR by examining innovative case studies from varied regulatory and industry landscapes. Worth Mentioning, Policy-driven EPR examples include Canada’s Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging, the European Union’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive, Japan’s Home Appliance Recycling Law, and India’s Plastic Waste Management Rules. Moreover, this research explores pioneering implementations of industry-led and tech-led EPR innovations such as Norway’s Deposit Return Scheme for Plastic Bottles, China’s EPR-driven battery recycling initiative, Sweden’s Producer-Backed Repair Incentives, and Coca-Cola’s ‘World Without Waste’ Global EPR Strategy. This study intends to identify the best practices, gaps, and direction for reinforcing EPR implementation. Findings reveal that while EPR enhances waste reduction and circular material flows, its success depends on robust regulatory enforcement, industry collaboration, digital tracking mechanisms, and active consumer participation. This chapter advances contemporary discourse by highlighting technology-driven EPR Approach integrating Blockchain-based supply chain transparency, AI-assisted waste sorting, and extended Digital Product Passports (DPPs). It also underscores crucial implications for sustainable production and consumption and ESG dynamics. The study stresses the urgency of Global policy coherence, multi-stakeholder participation, and resilient governance to ensure a sustainable and circular future for all.

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Author(s)
Vaishnavi Thakur
Shubham Kalra
Year
2026
Book Title
Green Horizons: Advancing Climate Solutions Through Green Finance, Circular Economy, and ESG
Book Editor(s)
Kandpal, Vinay; Filho, Walter Leal; Frizzo, Kamila; Aguilar-Rivera, Noe´ ; Choudhury, Tanupriya;
Publisher
Springer
Pages
291–316
ISBN/ISSN
1610-2010, 978-3-032-03484-7
DOI
10.1007/978-3-032-03484-7_16
URL
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-03484-7_16
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