Extended Producer Responsibility in the Metal Recycling Industry

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a vital environmental policy that holds producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, especially after consumer use—including collection, recycling, and disposal.

Below is a detailed analysis of how EPR applies to the metal recycling industry:

1. Overview of EPR

EPR is a policy tool that requires manufacturers, importers, and distributors to:

Assume financial responsibility for collecting and processing their product waste.
Possibly take on physical responsibility in certain models, such as designing environmentally friendly products or organizing collection and sorting systems.

2. Application of EPR in the Metal Recycling Industry

Metals are materials that can be recycled almost indefinitely (e.g., aluminum, steel, copper). However, efficient recycling requires a well-managed system for both environmental and economic benefits.

EPR affects the metal recycling sector in the following ways:

✅ Encourages the collection of metal waste: Producers are responsible for setting up or funding collection systems.
✅ Promotes source separation: Ensures metals are not mixed with other waste.
✅ Stimulates recyclable product design: For example, electronic devices with fewer mixed metals or easier disassembly.
✅ Supports the domestic recycling industry: Recycling businesses may receive financial backing from producers through the EPR mechanism.

3. Benefits for the Industry and the Environment

♻️ Reduces exploitation of virgin resources (such as iron ore, bauxite…)
📉 Lowers greenhouse gas emissions, as recycling metal is significantly more energy-efficient than producing new metal.
💰 Boosts the recycled material market, creates jobs, and promotes a circular economy.

4. Challenges in Implementing EPR for Metals

❗ Incomplete collection systems (especially in developing countries).
❗ Weak collaboration between producers and recyclers.
❗ Lack of transparent policies and effective monitoring of responsibility allocation.

5. Current Situation in Vietnam

The Law on Environmental Protection 2020 (effective in 2022) officially introduced EPR regulations, including for metal packaging, electronics, and vehicles.
Businesses can either organize their own compliance activities or contribute financially to the Vietnam Environmental Protection Fund for EPR implementation.

6. Recommendations for Producers and Recyclers

👉 Collaborate to build a collection and recycling chain: Connect producers, distributors, collectors, and recyclers.
👉 Join a PRO (Producer Responsibility Organization): Share the costs and implement joint responsibility programs.
👉 Invest in clean and efficient recycling technology.
👉 Raise consumer awareness about metal waste separation and collection.