Pass Policy
From model policies to playbooks and toolkits, to trainings – all the resources you need to advocate for reuse in your community and beyond.
Policy Features
Principles for Reuse in EPR & DRS
State legislation such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Deposit Return Systems (DRS) must focus on transitioning to a circular economy that prioritizes reuse.
Reuse and Refill in Packaging EPR
Understanding What Qualifies — And What Doesn’t
Examples of returnable reusable packaging and refillable packaging that qualify under EPR laws — plus examples of what does not qualify as “reusable.”
Policy Work
Policy Tools
Embracing Reuse in Packaging EPR Programs
A position paper and playbook for a Best-in-Class PRO.
EPR and DRS are better together! Here’s why.
Policy Priorities for Reuse Service Providers
Upstream convened reuse service providers to compile a list of policy priorities to accelerate reuse.
Reuse policy tracker
There are 130 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.
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.
What’s Canada’s secret sauce when it comes to reuse? A combination of factors are contributing momentum — and though it is a unique recipe, there’s still much to learn and apply to reuse systems everywhere else.