1. PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITYinRHODE ISLAND Changing the way we think about and manage product packaging, design, and disposal John Berard Campaign Organizer

2. PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY IN RI: Framework Outline (H-5888 & S-0459) • Initial Product Designation • DEM will work with product-specific committees to develop stewardship plans for architectural paint, mattresses, and medical sharps. One product will be addressed at a time. • Developing Product Specific Rules • The plan will address covered entities, performance goals, disposal bans (if needed), implementation dates, administration fees, and any other requirements relevant to establishing a stewardship program for that specific product. • Implementing a Program • Producers must submit an initial report outlining how they intend to implement the stewardship program and yearly reports after the initial report outlining their progress. • Evaluating Progress • DEM shall submit annual reports to the General Assembly of its activities pursuant to this bill. • Further Product Designation • DEM will work with a standing product advisory committee on a bi-yearly basis to review recommendations for product stewardship programs for additional products.

3. Why Mattresses, Paints, and Sharps? • RIRRC (runs RI’s main landfill and statewide HHW program) • $350,000/yr on mattress • $500,000/yr on paint disposal at HHW • $5,000/yr on medical sharps, loss of production is bigger issue • Cities and Towns • City of PVD (capitol city) • Over $400,000 on mattress disposal and recycling in 2010 • City of Central Falls (1 sq. mi city) • $5,000+ on mattress disposal • Cities are not allowed to take paint • Sharps an issue once recycling makes it to RIRRC recycling center • Local Recycling and Collection Infrastructure • Conigliaro mattress recycling (MA) • RIRRC • Hospital and Medical Center collection for sharps; past home collection programs • Environmental and Workers Safety Concerns • Oil-based paints, more than latex-based, are an environmental concern • Medical sharps are a significant workers safety issue for RIRRC • Illegal dumping

4. Process for Mattresses • Development of Product Specific Rules & Regs • Definition of covered entities • Environmentally sound management practices • Performance/product goals • Disposal Ban • Implementation dates • Administrative fees • Other requirements Producers State/Local Government Product-Specific Committee Mandatory Program Environmental Groups Solid Waste & Recycling Industry Submit plan for approval within 120 days Consumers// Covered Entities • Implement Program • Reports • Performance Goals • 2 yr ‘grace period’ Voluntary Program

5. Want more information on H5888/ S459? -Visit: www.rilin.state.ri.us -Use the search function -Type in: 5888 or 459 Thank you! Nicole Poepping Clean Water Action 401-331-6972 npoepping@cleanwater.org