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On December 5, 2024, the Maine Board of Environmental Protection adopted Stewardship Program for Packaging, 06-096 C.M.R. Ch. 428 (2024). According to 06-096 C.M.R. Ch. 428, the Department of Environmental Protection (Department) must initiate a formal rulemaking process for Appendix A – The Packaging Material Types List, within 270 days of the effective date of the rule. Appendix A defines packaging material and designates packaging material types readily recyclable, as applicable. It may also designate materials as compostable or reusable.
Outreach and Draft List Development
In March 2025, the Department initiated outreach to inform the development of Appendix A. A draft Packaging Material Types List (draft list) was released, and two stakeholder meetings were held in the following month. An updated draft list was published in July 2025, followed by a third stakeholder meeting.
The outreach effort engaged nearly 300 stakeholders and generated 77 public comments, including input from brand owners, material manufacturers and reclaimers, recycling organizations, municipalities, and industry groups. The updated version of Appendix A reflects this stakeholder feedback.
Supporting Materials
To support public understanding of the list and its development, the Department has published several documents, including a:
These materials are available on the program’s website.
Next Steps
The Department is scheduled to request that the Board of Environmental Protection post the amended 06-096 C.M.R. Ch. 428 on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Notifications regarding this rulemaking will follow the Board’s procedures for rulemaking.
The Department appreciates your continued engagement in the implementation of Maine’s Stewardship Program for Packaging. To access the statute, rule, Appendix A drafts, and supporting documents, please visit the program’s website.
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