Comment: Legislation could harm a recycling success story
Published 1:30 am Saturday, February 17, 2024
By Josh Estes / For The Herald
The discussion around House Bill 2049, the ReWRAP Act, as presented in a recent Herald commentary (“ReWRAP Act can help limit waves of plastic pollution,” The Herld, Jan. 27), brings critical environmental stewardship issues to light. The Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers, representing those in the pulp and paper industry, recognizes the intent behind this legislation. However, we advocate for a nuanced approach that accounts for the diversity of industries the legislation would affect.
Washington’s pulp and paper industry is a beacon of sustainable production and recycling. As Scott Tift, president of the association, remarks, “Our industry’s achievements in sustainability should inform new legislation like the ReWRAP Act, ensuring it supports existing success stories.”
The pulp and paper workers association believes that recycling legislation, such as HB 2049, should reflect the varied nature of materials it governs. The American Forest & Paper Association highlights the paper recycling success in Washington, emphasizing the need for legislative approaches that do not disrupt industries with proven recycling systems.
Concerns arise with the ReWRAP Act’s focus on extended producer responsibility. Chris McCabe, executive director of the Northwest Pulp and Paper Association, advocates for differentiated legislation: “A one-size-fits-all approach could inadvertently undermine industries already contributing positively to our recycling goals.”
The potential economic and employment impacts of sweeping legislation such as HB 2049 cannot be overlooked. The pulp and paper industry significantly contributes to Washington’s economy and supports family-wage, union-backed jobs. Responsible legislation should safeguard these jobs and the broader economic health of our state.
In advocating for targeted legislative action, the pulp and paper workers association seeks to balance improved waste management and recycling with industry-specific realities. We propose a legislative framework that effectively targets materials posing significant environmental challenges, without burdening industries with successful recycling practices.
While the goals of HB 2049 are commendable, its implementation requires careful calibration to support Washington’s diverse industries. The association is committed to constructive dialogue, advocating for legislation that harmonizes environmental objectives with industry realities.
In light of these considerations, we urge the Legislature to take a measured approach, allowing for deeper analysis and stakeholder engagement, potentially tabling HB 2049 until the next session to ensure any legislative action truly serves the best interests of both our environment and the diverse industries that are the backbone of Washington’s economy.
Josh Estes is managing partner for Pacific Northwest Regional Strategies. He wrote this in behalf of the Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers.
