Feb 16, 2024

Advanced Recycling Bill Passes Maine Legislature

“Advanced recycling is nothing more than a flashy PR campaign from the plastic industry,” said Nora Bosworth, Zero Waste Attorney at CLF. “These facilities pollute communities and perpetuate environmental racism. This commonsense bill will ensure that any advanced recycling facility is subject to Maine state regulations, and Governor Mills should sign it into law.”

pile of trash
Feb 12, 2024

Vermont Bottle Bill: An Urgent Makeover Is Overdue 

When Vermont first passed its bottle bill back in 1973, the program was a revolutionary tool to slash litter and boost recycling rates. Today, the program covers less than half of the drinks on store shelves. It’s time for an update

Point of view photo from inside of reverse vending machine used to return empty containers that participate in bottle bill programs.
Feb 08, 2024

Maine Deserves an Environmental Justice Law 

CLF is working with partners and legislators to ensure an environmental justice law becomes a reality in Maine. Join us in advocating to get this bill across the finish line.

Top of Maine State House over sunset, green lush trees on the left and right of the foreground.
Jan 23, 2024

Vermont Legislature Fails to Override Bottle Bill Veto

“Single-use containers are a scourge on our communities and choke our waters with litter,” said Nora Bosworth, Zero Waste Attorney at CLF. “Updated bottle and can redemption systems are a proven way to reduce plastic pollution and ensure that these materials are recycled into new products. Vermont has missed a serious opportunity to slash pollution and protect our environment today.”

A person places a plastic water bottle into a bottle redemption machine.
Jan 08, 2024

Plastic Free Mass Urges Legislators to Fix Recycling System

“Massachusetts beaches and waterways are choking with trash,” said CLF attorney Mara Shulman. “Across the state, volunteers are spending countless hours picking up litter. This is unsustainable. Updating the Bottle Bill will not only slash litter, but it will also reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions. It’s time for legislators to meet this moment and stop relying on volunteers to clean up litter when a legislative solution is at our fingertips.”

A person places a plastic water bottle into a bottle redemption machine.