Bill Rennie critiques Massachusetts paint recycling program at Retailers Association meeting

The Extended Producer Responsibility Commission Meeting #2, held by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) on May 24, 2025, focused on the implementation of a paint recycling program aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to engage various stakeholders, including businesses and consumers, in the initiative.

A key discussion point was the outreach strategies employed to encourage participation in the paint recycling program. Representatives emphasized their commitment to reaching out to different communities and businesses, including small paint retailers and contractors. They reported having conducted over 12,000 large volume pickups across the country, showcasing their proactive approach to collecting paint for recycling. The use of diverse media channels, such as newspapers, radio, and billboards, was noted as part of their outreach efforts. Additionally, a user-friendly website was introduced, allowing residents to locate nearby collection sites based on their ZIP codes, which is currently operational in Massachusetts despite the absence of a formal program.

However, the meeting also revealed significant opposition from the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, which represents around 4,000 members, including independent and chain stores. Bill Rennie, a representative from the association, expressed concerns regarding the financial burden of the program, arguing that it disproportionately places costs on consumers. He pointed out that the program's development involved government and industry groups, but did not adequately include input from retailers who would be directly affected. Rennie emphasized that many retailers are not interested in participating in paint collection due to space constraints and a lack of support from their members.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the complexities of implementing an Extended Producer Responsibility program in Massachusetts, particularly the need for collaboration among all stakeholders. As the state moves forward with its paint recycling initiative, addressing the concerns of retailers and ensuring a balanced approach will be crucial for the program's success. The commission's next steps will likely involve further engagement with businesses and refining outreach strategies to foster broader participation in the recycling efforts.