Pass Policy
From model policies to playbooks and toolkits, to trainings – all the resources you need to support reuse advocacy in your community.
Policy Features
New paper! Embracing Reuse in U.S. Packaging EPR Programs
A position paper and playbook for a Best-in-Class PRO.
Defining Reuse in a Policy Context
Definitions in policymaking matter, especially when it comes to defining reusable packaging. Here is what Upstream recommends.
Did you know? Reuse is a climate solution
Renewable energy addresses only 55% of UN climate goals. The remaining 45% hinges on transforming how we produce, consume, and dispose of consumable goods, emphasizing the crucial role of reuse solutions.
Policy Tools
Reuse & climate: Action for governments to take
The importance of embedding reuse into climate action plans—and how measuring consumption-based emissions gives a far more accurate depiction of a municipality’s climate impact.
State legislation to address the waste crisis must focus on transitioning to a circular economy that prioritizes reuse.
Principles for reuse in EPR & DRS
A myth-busting cheat sheet
Counter-arguments to the top four myths about why reuse is not a viable solution.
Reuse policy tracker
There are 107 total reuse laws in the US & Canada—and counting!
Policy Testimony & Comments
Upstream submits letters of support for reuse-related bills that are in keeping with our policy principles—or comments encouraging further integration of these principles.
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MN: HF 3577
February 19, 2024
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MN: HF 3200
February 19, 2024
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![Baltimore, MD]()
MD: SB 642
March 4, 2024
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MN: Packaging Waste & Cost Reduction Act
April 29, 2024
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![Testimony: California]()
CA: AB 2762
April 15, 2024
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CA: SB 54
Comments on draft regulations
May 8, 2024 -
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CA: SB 54
Formal Rule Comments
Nov 4, 2024 -
![welcome to Oregon sign: policy comment letter]()
OR: Proposed Program Plan for the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act
May 31, 2024
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OR: Comments re: proposed administrative rules for Plastic Pollution & Recycling Modernization Act
July 25, 2024
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Comments on Draft National Strategy to Prevent Plastic Pollution
July 28, 2023
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HI: Resolution 715-24
November 19, 2024
Join the
Reuse Solutions Network
Reuse leaders shaping innovative policy and community infrastructure
Member Benefits
Formerly known as the National Reuse Network, the Reuse Solutions Network (RSN) is a community of NGOs, entrepreneurs, local organizations, community leaders, and governments working to catalyze reuse and create a world where reuse and refill are standard practice. The network supports leaders working across the U.S. and Canada to:
Learn and collaborate in a space that fosters insight into reuse policy and infrastructure solutions
Share resources, tools, and best practices on source reduction and reuse/refill concepts
Gather in dialogue with like-minded reuse leaders to support new initiatives
Catalyze and pass policies that promote reuse and reduce single-use products and packaging
Develop reuse infrastructure and financial opportunities for reuse initiatives
Accelerate the growth of innovative reuse businesses
Occasional dedicated sessions for government leaders & employees
90-minute meetings are held regularly throughout the year and focus on a specific topic, featuring guest speakers and presentations, followed by discussion/Q&A.
Who you’ll meet
An international network of local governments, reuse service providers, and reuse advocates
Ideate and accelerate reuse and source reduction with representatives from organizations like:
EPISODE 172: Organizers in states where it is challenging to pass policy are still doing good work to reduce plastic waste and encourage reuse. Plastic Free MKE shares the story of their success.