Michael Washburn
Michael Washburn is Principal at Washburn Consulting and a consultant to HCPA. His other clients include other trade associations, companies and NGOs. His work is focused on EPR education, advocacy and implementation. He is the former VP of Sustainability at Nestle Waters North America and a former senior policy advisor at The Recycling Partnership.
Wednesday May 13
Joint Government Relations & Public Policy and Sustainability & Product Stewardship Council Special Session | Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
EPR Readiness: Legal, Retail, and Industry Perspectives
As Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies expand across the U.S. and globally, companies are navigating an increasingly complex and fragmented regulatory landscape. This session will bring together legal, retail, and industry perspectives to explore the key forces shaping EPR implementation and compliance. Experts will discuss emerging legal challenges, evolving retailer expectations, and the growing need for more strategic, coordinated approaches to packaging decisions.
This session will specifically highlight how organizations are approaching EPR more holistically, aligning compliance, cost, and operational considerations across markets. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the risks, tradeoffs, and opportunities shaping packaging and sustainability strategies in an EPR-driven world.
Moderator:
Michael Washburn, Principal, Washburn Consulting
Speakers:
Michael Boucher, Partner, Steptoe
Colin Preston, Managing Consultant, Ramboll
Allie Sauers, Senior Director, Legal & Regulatory Affairs, Retail Industry Leaders Association