Environmental Laws and Regulations Related to Packaging

These flashcards cover key concepts related to environmental laws and regulations discussing their impact on packaging, waste management practices, and recycling.

What are the two basic areas of environmental laws and regulations discussed in the lecture?

Health laws and environmental laws.

At what level are health laws primarily focused?

Health laws are primarily focused at the federal level.

What is the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) primarily concerned with?

The RCRA deals with solid waste issues.

Name two federal acts that are affected by how we deal with waste.

The Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act.

What is one key difference between health laws and environmental laws?

Health laws are consistent nationwide, while environmental laws vary by state and locality.

What packaging material is significantly impacted by the ban on chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)?

Expanded polystyrene (EPS), commonly known as Styrofoam.

What is a bottle bill and how does it promote litter control?

A bottle bill requires consumers to pay a deposit on beverage containers that can be refunded when returned, reducing litter.

What significant regulation does California have for labeling potential hazards on packaging?

Proposition 65 requires the listing of any carcinogen or substance causing birth defects on the package.

What is the main purpose of mandatory recycling laws?

To promote the separation of recyclables but does not guarantee actual recycling occurs.

How does source reduction differ from recycling in waste management?

Source reduction aims to produce less waste in the first place, while recycling involves processing waste materials.

What was the effect of the ban on the beverage container pull tab?

It resulted in the tab remaining on the can to prevent litter.

What percentage of solid waste is generally attributed to packaging?

Approximately 30% or one-third of all waste is contributed by packaging.

What is the EPA's hierarchy of waste management solutions?

1. Source reduction 2. Recycling 3. Incineration 4. Landfilling.

What do the recycling codes indicate?

The recycling codes categorize the types of materials used in packaging for identification and recycling purposes.

Which type of plastic is commonly used for water bottles?

Polyester or PET (recycling code 1).

What is a notable difference in recycling practices between the US and Europe?

Europe generally has more advanced mandatory recycling programs, such as Germany's Green Dot program.