State legislation such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Deposit Return Systems (DRS) must focus on transitioning to a circular economy that prioritizes reuse. (Updated January 2026).

2025 was the Year of Innovation for Upstream and the reuse movement. Join us in celebrating everyone’s accomplishments.

Exploring the role of policymaking as it relates to a just transition to a reuse economy.

Upstream shares what stood out to us after attending Climate Week NYC 2025 in New York City, NY.

Part III of a conversation with Jo Banner and Frankie Orona, an installation of Upstream’s project exploring the role of reuse in a Just Transition.

Part II of a conversation with Jo Banner and Frankie Orona, an installation of Upstream’s project exploring the role of reuse in a Just Transition.

image credit: Society of Native Nations

We are ready for the next step beyond pilots to ensure that reuse becomes systemic and widespread: we are ready for enduring projects. 

Themes and throughlines in the conversations occurring at packaging and sustainability conferences that provide a snapshot of where reuse is gaining traction, and where it is hitting snags.

Upstream’s policy team shares 2024 highlights.