As sustainability regulations continue to grow in complexity and urgency, one policy stands out for its direct impact on fishing, outdoor, and apparel brands: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging and textiles.
In the latest episode of The Sustainable Angler, I am joined by James Pollack, an environmental attorney at Marten Law who helps top outdoor brands stay compliant and market sustainability claims ethically and transparently.
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
EPR is a policy that shifts the cost and responsibility for end-of-life packaging and materials from consumers and municipalities to producers. It means that brands are now financially and operationally responsible for the environmental impact of the packaging they bring into certain states.
States like California, Colorado, Oregon, and Maine have already passed EPR legislation, and more are on the way. If you sell fishing gear, outdoor apparel, or equipment—especially through major retailers—you need to understand how EPR impacts your business. Additionally, California now has an EPR law for textiles.
Episode Highlights
In this episode, we discuss:
✅ What EPR laws require
✅ How EPR affects packaging design, reporting, and compliance
✅ What fishing and outdoor brands must do to avoid fines and fees
✅ Why aligning with EPR now gives your brand a competitive edge
Why It Matters for Outdoor Brands
Fishing and outdoor brands are built on a love of wild places—but their packaging often contributes to the pollution of those same ecosystems. EPR laws are pushing brands to take responsibility for their impact, and consumers are demanding it too.
If you want to sell through top retailers, maintain customer trust, and avoid rising compliance costs, understanding EPR is no longer optional—it’s essential.
About Our Guest: James Pollack
James Pollack is an environmental lawyer at Marten Law who specializes in helping outdoor gear, apparel, and footwear companies stay compliant with complex regulations and avoid greenwashing. He advises national brands on issues related to:
- Material inputs & packaging design
- PFAS and other emerging contaminants
- Green marketing claims
- Climate-related disclosures
Tune In & Stay Ahead
If you’re a fishing or outdoor brand navigating the intersection of sustainability and regulation, this episode will help you make smarter decisions today—and avoid costly mistakes tomorrow.
Listen to The Sustainable Angler – EPR with James Pollack now
Want help navigating EPR for your brand? Fill out the form below and let’s schedule a free 30-minute consultation!