Colorado Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling

Under CRS 25-17-701 to 25-17-714, Colorado became the fifth state to enact extended producer responsibility for packaging. The Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), Circular Action Alliance, must fund collection, sorting, and processing of covered packaging and paper products to provide free recycling service to all residents and small businesses. The program covers a uniform statewide minimum recyclable list and convenience standards that local programs must meet starting July 1, 2025. Producers selling covered materials in Colorado must register with the PRO and pay annual dues based on tonnage and recyclability.

Producers failing to register or report face penalties up to $25,000 per violation under CRS 25-17-712 enforced by the CDPHE.