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AF&PA Opposes Current Massachusetts Recycling Proposals

CONTACT: Tim Ebner / Clara Cozort
(202) 463-2587, comm@afandpa.org

WASHINGTON — The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) Senior Director of Government Affairs Abby Sztein issued the following statement in response to the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources hearing regarding proposals related to recycling and waste management.

AF&PA supports legislators’ goals to better manage waste and improve sustainability. However, we oppose one-size-fits-all policies. Current proposals do not reflect the complexities of the state’s recycling system. They could also impact the long-term success of highly recycled materials like paper, which is one of the most widely recycled materials in America.

“Paper recycling is a model that works. We encourage Massachusetts lawmakers to take a more solutions-oriented approach and avoid measures that would penalize the forest products industry from engaging in the state economy.” 

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative —Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states. Visit AF&PA online at afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper