The Extended Producer Responsibility Law (REP Law) is a key tool for moving towards a more circular and sustainable economy. However, its implementation can present challenges for companies seeking to comply with their obligations and adapt to the new legal framework. Below, we explore three common mistakes when implementing the REP Law and offer recommendations to avoid them.
1. Underestimating the scope of the law
Mistake: Many companies believe that the REP Law only affects large producers or that it only involves minor changes to their operations. This misperception can lead to a lack of preparation, legal penalties, and a negative impact on the company’s reputation.
How to avoid it:
- Conduct a detailed analysis of the products your company sells and verify which ones are covered by the REP Law.
- Consult environmental regulation specialists to ensure you fully understand your obligations.
- Develop a long-term strategic plan to integrate extended responsibility into your business model.
2. Not involving the entire value chain
Mistake: Some producers try to implement the EPR Law in isolation, without considering collaboration with suppliers, distributors and other key players in the value chain. This can result in partial and inefficient compliance.
How to avoid it:
- Promote collaboration with suppliers to ensure that the materials and packaging used are recyclable or reusable.
- Create alliances with certified waste managers to ensure that end-of-life products are managed appropriately.
- Encourage education and awareness campaigns aimed at consumers so that they actively participate in the recycling process.
3. Neglecting product design
Mistake: Many companies continue to design products without considering their end-of-life impact, making recycling or recovery difficult. This approach can contradict the principles of the EPR Law and increase compliance costs.
How to avoid it:
- Integrate circular design criteria from the early stages of product development, prioritizing recyclable or biodegradable materials.
- Evaluate options to implement product return systems, such as refill or reuse programs.
- Invest in innovation to reduce the environmental impact of your products.
Implementing the REP Law may seem like a challenge, but it also represents an opportunity to transform your company’s operations and align with the demands of a more sustainable market. Avoiding these common mistakes is the first step to ensuring successful compliance and generating a positive impact on the environment and the perception of your brand.
At Mercado Circular, we support companies in their transition towards more sustainable and responsible business models. If you need guidance to implement the REP Law in your organization, contact us! Together we can build a more circular future.
Sources:
- Ministerio del Medio Ambiente, Gobierno de Chile: Ley REP y su implementación
- Noticias ONU Medio Ambiente: Impacto de la economía circular en la región