{ "schema": "instica-epr-page/1", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany", "twins": { "md": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany.md", "json": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany.json" }, "key": "J:US-CO:DE", "family": "J", "locale": "en", "lang": "en-US", "title": "Colorado vs Germany EPR: Thresholds, Fees and Dates", "h1": "Colorado vs Germany EPR: Rules Compared", "description": "Colorado vs Germany packaging EPR: Both require producers to register. Fees, thresholds, dates and formats compared from primary sources.", "answer": "Colorado and Germany both run packaging EPR and line up on the figures compared. Both require producers to register. Every figure below links to its primary source. Instica measures, estimates and prepares; the customer signs and submits. Compare thresholds first, then fees and dates.", "lastVerified": "2026-11-05", "dateModified": "2026-11-05", "dataset": { "version": "v1-281284b7e7c1", "licence": "CC-BY-4.0", "licenceLine": "Reuse is allowed under CC-BY-4.0 with credit to Instica and a link to this page." }, "cite": "Instica, “Colorado vs Germany EPR: Rules Compared”, https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany, last verified 2026-11-05, dataset v1-281284b7e7c1, CC-BY-4.0.", "about": [], "facts": [ { "id": "a-regime", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-regime", "leafPath": "US-CO.regime", "statement": "Colorado: the packaging rules sit in Colorado Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling Act, C.R.S. 25-17-701 et seq. (HB22-1355).", "value": "Colorado Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling Act, C.R.S. 25-17-701 et seq. (HB22-1355)", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "quote": "In 2022, Governor Polis signed the Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling Act into law", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-regulator", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-regulator", "leafPath": "US-CO.regulator", "statement": "Colorado: the regulator is Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Solid Waste and Materials Management Program.", "value": "Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Solid Waste and Materials Management Program", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "quote": "CDPHE appointed Circular Action Alliance as the designated Producer Responsibility Organization in May 2023.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-obligated", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-obligated", "leafPath": "US-CO.obligated", "statement": "Colorado places an obligation on packaging producers.", "value": true, "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "quote": "a producer cannot sell or distribute products that use covered materials in Colorado unless they participate in the Producer Responsibility Program", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-registration", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-registration", "leafPath": "US-CO.registration", "statement": "Colorado: producers must register through Circular Action Alliance producer portal.", "value": true, "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "quote": "All producers of paper products and packaging materials should register with Circular Action Alliance and submit a supply report.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-organisation", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-organisation", "leafPath": "US-CO.organisation", "statement": "Colorado organises producer responsibility through more than one producer responsibility organisation: Circular Action Alliance and Interchange 360 (automotive lubricant packaging, individual programme); membership is required.", "value": "multiple_pros", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "quote": "Interchange 360 manages the recycling of automotive lubricant packaging, such as motor oil and antifreeze.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-revenue-scope", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-revenue-scope", "leafPath": "US-CO.revenue_scope", "statement": "Colorado measures revenue as realised gross total revenue in USD, over the prior calendar year.", "value": "realized_gross_total_revenue", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "quote": "in realized gross total revenue, not including on-premises alcohol sales, during the prior calendar year", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-hierarchy-other", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-hierarchy-other", "leafPath": "US-CO.producer_hierarchy.levels.other", "statement": "Colorado: at the other packaging level the producer hierarchy names the first distributor (2025).", "value": "first_distributor", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-hierarchy-primary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-hierarchy-primary", "leafPath": "US-CO.producer_hierarchy.levels.primary", "statement": "Colorado: at the primary packaging level the producer hierarchy names the manufacturer or brand owner, brand licensee and importer (2025).", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner > licensee > importer", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-hierarchy-shipping", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-hierarchy-shipping", "leafPath": "US-CO.producer_hierarchy.levels.shipping", "statement": "Colorado: at the shipping packaging level the producer hierarchy names the packer and shipper (2025).", "value": "packer_shipper", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-threshold-small-producer-revenue", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-threshold-small-producer-revenue", "leafPath": "US-CO.thresholds[small_producer_revenue]", "statement": "Colorado threshold on revenue: $5,000,000; effect: exempt below the threshold.", "value": "$5,000,000", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "quote": "A person with less than five million dollars in realized gross total revenue, not including on-premises alcohol sales, during the prior calendar year", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-threshold-small-producer-tonnage", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-threshold-small-producer-tonnage", "leafPath": "US-CO.thresholds[small_producer_tonnage]", "statement": "Colorado threshold on tonnage: 1 short ton; effect: exempt below the threshold.", "value": "1 short ton", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "quote": "has used less than one ton of covered materials for products sold or distributed within or into the state", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-threshold-flat-dues-ceiling", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-threshold-flat-dues-ceiling", "leafPath": "US-CO.thresholds[flat_dues_ceiling]", "statement": "Colorado threshold on tonnage: 10 short tons; effect: flat fee band.", "value": "10 short tons", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2026-Dues-Schedule-Public.pdf", "quote": "Producers who supply 10 tons or less of covered materials into the state are eligible to pay flat dues according to the following schedule", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-exemption-statutory-exemptions", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-exemption-statutory-exemptions", "leafPath": "US-CO.exemptions[statutory_exemptions]", "statement": "Colorado exemption: Exempt from Part 7: revenue under the dollar limit, under one ton of covered materials, state or local government, nonprofit, an agricultural employer with under $5 million in-state consumer sales of its own-brand farm products, a single licensed retail food establishment at a physical location, and builders, construction companies and contractors. It does not have to be applied for.", "value": "statutory_exemptions", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "quote": "A producer is exempt from the requirements of this part 7 if the producer is", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-deadline-dues-2026", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-deadline-dues-2026", "leafPath": "US-CO.deadlines[dues_2026]", "statement": "Colorado: payment date January 1, 2026, covering program year 2026.", "value": "January 1, 2026", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-709", "quote": "no later than January 1, 2026, and annually thereafter by a date determined by the organization", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-deadline-eco-modulation-bonus-schedule", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-deadline-eco-modulation-bonus-schedule", "leafPath": "US-CO.deadlines[eco_modulation_bonus_schedule]", "statement": "Colorado: other date January 1, 2026.", "value": "January 1, 2026", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-709", "quote": "By January 1, 2026, and each year thereafter, the executive director shall develop an eco-modulation bonus schedule", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-penalty-0", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-penalty-0", "leafPath": "US-CO.penalties.items[0]", "statement": "Colorado penalty for First violation of Part 7 by a producer or producer responsibility organization: up to $5,000 for the first day, then up to $1,500 per day the violation continues.", "value": "up to 5000 for the first day, then up to 1500 per day the violation continues", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2022a_1355_signed.pdf", "quote": "FIRST VIOLATION, AN INITIAL PENALTY OF FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR THE FIRST DAY OF EACH VIOLATION AND ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS PER DAY", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-05", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-penalty-1", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-penalty-1", "leafPath": "US-CO.penalties.items[1]", "statement": "Colorado penalty for Second violation within twelve months after a prior violation: up to $10,000 for the first day, then up to $3,000 per day the violation continues.", "value": "up to 10000 for the first day, then up to 3000 per day the violation continues", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2022a_1355_signed.pdf", "quote": null, "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-05", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-penalty-2", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-penalty-2", "leafPath": "US-CO.penalties.items[2]", "statement": "Colorado penalty for Third or later violation within twelve months after two or more prior violations: up to $20,000 for the first day, then up to $6,000 per day the violation continues.", "value": "up to 20000 for the first day, then up to 6000 per day the violation continues", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2022a_1355_signed.pdf", "quote": null, "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-05", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-materials", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-materials", "leafPath": "US-CO.applicability", "statement": "Colorado: materials covered is packaging material, paper products, food serviceware.", "value": "packaging_material,paper_products,food_serviceware", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "means any material, regardless of recyclability, that is intended for single or short-term use", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-products", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-products", "leafPath": "US-CO.applicability", "statement": "Colorado: product classes covered is packaging, paper, food serviceware.", "value": "packaging,paper,food_serviceware", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "means any material, regardless of recyclability, that is intended for single or short-term use", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-excluded", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-excluded", "leafPath": "US-CO.applicability", "statement": "Colorado: excluded from scope is packaging used solely in transportation to nonconsumers, packaging used solely in business to business sales.", "value": "packaging_used_solely_in_transportation_to_nonconsumers,packaging_used_solely_in_business_to_business_sales", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "means any material, regardless of recyclability, that is intended for single or short-term use", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-channels", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-channels", "leafPath": "US-CO.applicability", "statement": "Colorado: sales channels addressed is physical retail, internet transaction.", "value": "physical_retail,internet_transaction", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "means any material, regardless of recyclability, that is intended for single or short-term use", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-ph-primary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-ph-primary", "leafPath": "US-CO.producer_hierarchy.levels.primary", "statement": "Colorado: producer duty: primary packaging is manufacturer_brand_owner; licensee; importer.", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner,licensee,importer", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-ph-shipping", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-ph-shipping", "leafPath": "US-CO.producer_hierarchy.levels.shipping", "statement": "Colorado: producer duty: shipping packaging is packer_shipper.", "value": "packer_shipper", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-ph-other", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-ph-other", "leafPath": "US-CO.producer_hierarchy.levels.other", "statement": "Colorado: producer duty: other packaging is first_distributor.", "value": "first_distributor", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "quote": "the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-categories", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-categories", "leafPath": "US-CO.categories", "statement": "Colorado: reporting categories is 61, covered material type by material class.", "value": 61, "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2026-Dues-Schedule-Public.pdf", "quote": "Material Class Covered Material Type Base Dues Detriments Malus Not on MRL Malus High Recycling Rates Bonus Final Dues", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-scope-ex1", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-scope-ex1", "leafPath": "US-CO.exemptions[0]", "statement": "Colorado: exemption 1 is Exempt from Part 7: revenue under the dollar limit, under one ton of covered materials, state or local government, nonprofit, an agricultural employer with under $5 million in-state consumer sales of its own-brand farm products, a single licensed retail food establishment at a physical location, and builders, construction companies and contractors.", "value": "Exempt from Part 7: revenue under the dollar limit, under one ton of covered materials, state or local government, nonprofit, an agricultural employer with under $5 million in-state consumer sales of its own-brand farm products, a single licensed retail food establishment at a physical location, and builders, construction companies and contractors.", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "quote": "A producer is exempt from the requirements of this part 7 if the producer is", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-regime", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-regime", "leafPath": "DE.regime", "statement": "Germany: the packaging rules sit in Packaging producer responsibility: register in LUCID, participate packaging subject to system participation in a dual system, and report volumes.", "value": "Packaging producer responsibility: register in LUCID, participate packaging subject to system participation in a dual system, and report volumes", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/system-participation", "quote": "you must finance the recycling of your packaging by participating that packaging in a system.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-regulator", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-regulator", "leafPath": "DE.regulator", "statement": "Germany: the regulator is Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR), which runs the LUCID Packaging Register; competent state authorities enforce.", "value": "Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR), which runs the LUCID Packaging Register; competent state authorities enforce", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "quote": "The Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (Central Agency Packaging Register – ZSVR) and the competent state authorities", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-obligated", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-obligated", "leafPath": "DE.obligated", "statement": "Germany places an obligation on packaging producers.", "value": true, "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "quote": "If you are distributing packaged goods in Germany, you have to be registered with the LUCID Packaging Register.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-registration", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-registration", "leafPath": "DE.registration", "statement": "Germany: producers must register through LUCID Packaging Register (ZSVR).", "value": true, "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "quote": "you must register with the LUCID Packaging Register. Registering is free of charge.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-organisation", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-organisation", "leafPath": "DE.organisation", "statement": "Germany organises producer responsibility through more than one producer responsibility organisation; membership is not required.", "value": "multiple_pros", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/system-participation", "quote": "You can conclude your system participation agreement with the system operator of your choice.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-transfer", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-transfer", "leafPath": "DE.transfer_rules", "statement": "Germany allows a producer’s obligation to be transferred to another party.", "value": true, "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/system-participation", "quote": "you are required to conclude a system participation agreement with a system operator.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-hierarchy-other", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-hierarchy-other", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.other", "statement": "Germany: at the other packaging level the producer hierarchy names the manufacturer or brand owner, manufacturer, importer, first distributor and authorised representative (2026).", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner > manufacturer > importer > first_distributor > authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-hierarchy-primary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-hierarchy-primary", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.primary", "statement": "Germany: at the primary packaging level the producer hierarchy names the manufacturer or brand owner, importer, first distributor and authorised representative (2026).", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner > importer > first_distributor > authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-hierarchy-secondary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-hierarchy-secondary", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.secondary", "statement": "Germany: at the secondary packaging level the producer hierarchy names the manufacturer or brand owner, importer, first distributor and authorised representative (2026).", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner > importer > first_distributor > authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-hierarchy-service", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-hierarchy-service", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.service", "statement": "Germany: at the service packaging level the producer hierarchy names the manufacturer or brand owner, manufacturer, importer, first distributor and authorised representative (2026).", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner > manufacturer > importer > first_distributor > authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-hierarchy-shipping", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-hierarchy-shipping", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.shipping", "statement": "Germany: at the shipping packaging level the producer hierarchy names the manufacturer or brand owner, packer and shipper, importer, first distributor, online marketplace seller and authorised representative (2026).", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner > packer_shipper > importer > first_distributor > online_marketplace_seller > authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-hierarchy-tertiary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-hierarchy-tertiary", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.tertiary", "statement": "Germany: at the tertiary packaging level the producer hierarchy names the manufacturer or brand owner, manufacturer, importer, first distributor and authorised representative (2026).", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner > manufacturer > importer > first_distributor > authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-threshold-declaration-of-completeness-glass", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-threshold-declaration-of-completeness-glass", "leafPath": "DE.thresholds[declaration_of_completeness_glass]", "statement": "Germany threshold on tonnage: 80 tonnes; effect: triggers a declaration of completeness.", "value": "80 tonnes", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "quote": "Glass: 80 tonnes", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-threshold-declaration-of-completeness-paper", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-threshold-declaration-of-completeness-paper", "leafPath": "DE.thresholds[declaration_of_completeness_paper]", "statement": "Germany threshold on tonnage: 50 tonnes; effect: triggers a declaration of completeness.", "value": "50 tonnes", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "quote": "Paper, paperboard, cardboard (PPC) in total: 50 tonnes", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-threshold-declaration-of-completeness-lightweight", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-threshold-declaration-of-completeness-lightweight", "leafPath": "DE.thresholds[declaration_of_completeness_lightweight]", "statement": "Germany threshold on tonnage: 30 tonnes; effect: triggers a declaration of completeness.", "value": "30 tonnes", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "quote": "Ferrous metals + aluminium + plastics + beverage cartons + other composites (lightweight packaging) in total: 30 tonnes", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-threshold-simplified-reporting", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-threshold-simplified-reporting", "leafPath": "DE.thresholds[simplified_reporting]", "statement": "Germany threshold on tonnage: 10 tonnes; effect: reduced duties.", "value": "10 tonnes", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/data-reporting", "quote": "A simplified reporting requirement applies to producers who made available less than 10 tonnes of packaging subject to system participation", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-deadline-year-end-volume-report", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-deadline-year-end-volume-report", "leafPath": "DE.deadlines[year_end_volume_report]", "statement": "Germany: report date June 1, 2027, covering calendar year 2026.", "value": "June 1, 2027", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/data-reporting", "quote": "Year-end volume reports for the previous year (actual volumes) can only be filed up to 1 June.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-deadline-planned-volume-report", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-deadline-planned-volume-report", "leafPath": "DE.deadlines[planned_volume_report]", "statement": "Germany: report date December 31, 2026, covering calendar year 2027.", "value": "December 31, 2026", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/data-reporting", "quote": "Initial planned volume reports for the following year can only be filed by 31 December of the current year.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-deadline-declaration-of-completeness", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-deadline-declaration-of-completeness", "leafPath": "DE.deadlines[declaration_of_completeness]", "statement": "Germany: report date May 15, 2027, covering calendar year 2026.", "value": "May 15, 2027", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "quote": "by no later than 15 May of any given year for the previous year.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-materials", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-materials", "leafPath": "DE.applicability", "statement": "Germany: materials covered is paper and card, glass, plastic, steel, aluminium, fibre based composite, other.", "value": "paper_and_card,glass,plastic,steel,aluminium,fibre_based_composite,other", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "quote": "There are two different packaging categories: packaging subject to system participation and packaging not subject to system participation.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-products", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-products", "leafPath": "DE.applicability", "statement": "Germany: product classes covered is primary packaging, secondary packaging, shipment packaging, tertiary packaging, reusable packaging.", "value": "primary_packaging,secondary_packaging,shipment_packaging,tertiary_packaging,reusable_packaging", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "quote": "There are two different packaging categories: packaging subject to system participation and packaging not subject to system participation.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-channels", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-channels", "leafPath": "DE.applicability", "statement": "Germany: sales channels addressed is retail, wholesale, online, online marketplace.", "value": "retail,wholesale,online,online_marketplace", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "quote": "There are two different packaging categories: packaging subject to system participation and packaging not subject to system participation.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-ph-primary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-ph-primary", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.primary", "statement": "Germany: producer duty: primary packaging is manufacturer_brand_owner; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative.", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner,importer,first_distributor,authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-ph-secondary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-ph-secondary", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.secondary", "statement": "Germany: producer duty: secondary packaging is manufacturer_brand_owner; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative.", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner,importer,first_distributor,authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-ph-tertiary", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-ph-tertiary", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.tertiary", "statement": "Germany: producer duty: tertiary packaging is manufacturer_brand_owner; manufacturer; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative.", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner,manufacturer,importer,first_distributor,authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a 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null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-ph-service", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-ph-service", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.service", "statement": "Germany: producer duty: service packaging is manufacturer_brand_owner; manufacturer; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative.", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner,manufacturer,importer,first_distributor,authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-scope-ph-other", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-scope-ph-other", "leafPath": "DE.producer_hierarchy.levels.other", "statement": "Germany: producer duty: other packaging is manufacturer_brand_owner; manufacturer; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative.", "value": "manufacturer_brand_owner,manufacturer,importer,first_distributor,authorised_representative", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "calc-registration", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#calc-registration", "leafPath": "calc.J.registration[US-CO:DE]", "statement": "Both programmes require a producer to register, in Colorado and in Germany.", "value": "same", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "quote": "All producers of paper products and packaging materials should register with Circular Action Alliance and submit a supply report.", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-fee-source", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-fee-source", "leafPath": "fees.US-CO-2027.source", "statement": "Colorado: the 2027 fee schedule of Circular Action Alliance (Colorado PRO), effective January 1, 2027, is the source of the per-kilogram rates used on this page.", "value": "CAA Colorado 2027 Producer Dues Schedule (public)", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "quote": "2027 Colorado Producer Dues Schedule Dues for Program Year 2027", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-rate-co-kraft-paper", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-rate-co-kraft-paper", "leafPath": "fees.US-CO-2027.rates[CO-kraft-paper]", "statement": "Colorado 2027: the category “Kraft Paper” is published at 9.0 cents per pound.", "value": "9.0", "unit": "cents_per_lb", "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "quote": "Kraft Paper MRL $0.09 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.09", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-rate-co-hdpe-2-ldpe-4-flexible-and-film-items", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-rate-co-hdpe-2-ldpe-4-flexible-and-film-items", "leafPath": "fees.US-CO-2027.rates[CO-hdpe-2-ldpe-4-flexible-and-film-items]", "statement": "Colorado 2027: the category “HDPE (#2)/LDPE (#4) Flexible and Film Items” is published at 62.0 cents per pound.", "value": "62.0", "unit": "cents_per_lb", "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "quote": "HDPE (#2)/LDPE (#4) Flexible and Film Items AML $0.62 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.62", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "a-rate-co-glass-bottles-and-jars-and-other-containers", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#a-rate-co-glass-bottles-and-jars-and-other-containers", "leafPath": "fees.US-CO-2027.rates[CO-glass-bottles-and-jars-and-other-containers]", "statement": "Colorado 2027: the category “Glass Bottles and Jars & Other Containers” is published at 5.0 cents per pound.", "value": "5.0", "unit": "cents_per_lb", "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "quote": "Glass Bottles and Jars & Other Containers MRL $0.05 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.05", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "label": null } }, { "id": "b-format-spec", "anchor": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany#b-format-spec", "leafPath": "formats.DE-lucid-volume-report.specification", "statement": "Germany report specification: XML producer volume report with elements VersionNoInterface, PackagingTypeCode, TypeOfReportCode, ReportingPeriodFrom, ReportingPeriodTo and one SystemOperator with its SystemOperatorID and a Material list (MaterialCode, Mass).", "value": "XML producer volume report with elements VersionNoInterface, PackagingTypeCode, TypeOfReportCode, ReportingPeriodFrom, ReportingPeriodTo and one SystemOperator with its SystemOperatorID and a Material list (MaterialCode, Mass).", "unit": null, "pending": false, "source": { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/fileadmin/files/LUCID/Anleitung_XML_Datenmeldung_EN.pdf", "quote": "Mass: packaging material mass in kg to the third decimal place without thousands separators (decimal place demarcated with comma).", "quoteLang": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-30", "status": "verified", "label": null } } ], "sections": [ { "id": "answer", "heading": null, "kind": "answer", "markdown": "\n\nColorado and Germany both run packaging EPR and line up on the figures compared. Both require producers to register. Every figure below links to its primary source. Instica measures, estimates and prepares; the customer signs and submits. Compare thresholds first, then fees and dates." }, { "id": "glance", "heading": "Colorado and Germany side by side", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## Colorado and Germany side by side\n\n1 of 9 rows have a verified figure on each side of Colorado and Germany; a cell reads “not yet published” when a side has none, and an exemption row reads “none recorded; see thresholds” when no exemption is on record.\n\n**Colorado and Germany: the measures both programmes publish**\n\n| Measure | Colorado | Germany | Stricter |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Registration duty | Required | Required | Same |\n| Producer organisation | more than one producer responsibility organisation | more than one producer responsibility organisation | Not comparable |\n| Lowest revenue exemption | $5,000,000 | none recorded; see thresholds | Not comparable |\n| Lowest weight exemption | 907.2 kg | none recorded; see thresholds | Not comparable |\n| First annual report date | not yet published | May 15 | Not comparable |\n| Published penalties | 3 published | not yet published | Not comparable |\n| Report file | csv | xml | Not comparable |\n| Paper fee, cheapest matched rate | 9.0 cents per pound | not yet published | Not comparable |\n| Plastic fee, cheapest matched rate | 62.0 cents per pound | not yet published | Not comparable |\n\nBoth programmes require a producer to register, in Colorado and in Germany." }, { "id": "programme", "heading": "Who runs the programme in Colorado and Germany", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## Who runs the programme in Colorado and Germany\n\nWho collects and who the producer files with, in Colorado and then Germany.\n\n**Colorado and Germany: how each programme is set up**\n\n| Aspect | Colorado | Germany |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Regime | Colorado Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling Act, C.R.S. 25-17-701 et seq. (HB22-1355) | Packaging producer responsibility: register in LUCID, participate packaging subject to system participation in a dual system, and report volumes |\n| Regulator | Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Solid Waste and Materials Management Program | Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR), which runs the LUCID Packaging Register; competent state authorities enforce |\n| Producers obligated | Yes | Yes |\n| Registration | Required, Circular Action Alliance producer portal | Required, LUCID Packaging Register (ZSVR) |\n| Producer organisation | more than one producer responsibility organisation: Circular Action Alliance, Interchange 360 (automotive lubricant packaging, individual programme); membership required | more than one producer responsibility organisation; membership optional |\n| Transfer of responsibility | not yet published | Allowed |\n| Revenue counted as | realised gross total revenue, USD, prior calendar year | not yet published |\n| Who counts as the producer | other: first distributor; primary: manufacturer or brand owner, brand licensee, importer; shipping: packer and shipper | other: manufacturer or brand owner, manufacturer, importer, first distributor, authorised representative; primary: manufacturer or brand owner, importer, first distributor, authorised representative; secondary: manufacturer or brand owner, importer, first distributor, authorised representative; service: manufacturer or brand owner, manufacturer, importer, first distributor, authorised representative; shipping: manufacturer or brand owner, packer and shipper, importer, first distributor, online marketplace seller, authorised representative; tertiary: manufacturer or brand owner, manufacturer, importer, first distributor, authorised representative |\n\n> **Not yet published**: Not yet published for Colorado: the rules on transferring responsibility. Reason: The sections read (703, 709, 710, 713) do not say whether obligations can be assigned by contract. Sections 25-17-705 to 708 were not read.\n\n> **Not yet published**: Not yet published for Germany: how revenue is counted. Reason: No revenue test appears on the pages read. The value records that none was found, which is not proof that none exists.\n\nBoth programmes organise producer responsibility the same way: more than one producer responsibility organisation. The practical differences between Colorado and Germany therefore sit in thresholds, fees, dates and report formats rather than in whom a producer deals with." }, { "id": "scope", "heading": "What Colorado and Germany cover, side by side", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## What Colorado and Germany cover, side by side\n\nEach row below is one published feature of the two programmes; a cell reads “not yet published” when Colorado or Germany has no verified entry for it in the dataset.\n\n**Scope, producer duties, categories, labelling and targets, Colorado and Germany**\n\n| Aspect | Colorado | Germany |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Materials covered | packaging material, paper products, food serviceware | paper and card, glass, plastic, steel, aluminium, fibre based composite, other |\n| Product classes covered | packaging, paper, food serviceware | primary packaging, secondary packaging, shipment packaging, tertiary packaging, reusable packaging |\n| Excluded from scope | packaging used solely in transportation to nonconsumers, packaging used solely in business to business sales | not yet published |\n| Sales channels addressed | physical retail, internet transaction | retail, wholesale, online, online marketplace |\n| Producer duty: primary packaging | manufacturer_brand_owner; licensee; importer | manufacturer_brand_owner; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative |\n| Producer duty: shipping packaging | packer_shipper | manufacturer_brand_owner; packer_shipper; importer; first_distributor; online_marketplace_seller; authorised_representative |\n| Producer duty: other packaging | first_distributor | manufacturer_brand_owner; manufacturer; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative |\n| Reporting categories | 61, covered material type by material class | not yet published |\n| Exemption 1 | Exempt from Part 7: revenue under the dollar limit, under one ton of covered materials, state or local government, nonprofit, an agricultural employer with under $5 million in-state consumer sales of its own-brand farm products, a single licensed retail food establishment at a physical location, and builders, construction companies and contractors. | not yet published |\n| Producer duty: secondary packaging | not yet published | manufacturer_brand_owner; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative |\n| Producer duty: tertiary packaging | not yet published | manufacturer_brand_owner; manufacturer; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative |\n| Producer duty: service packaging | not yet published | manufacturer_brand_owner; manufacturer; importer; first_distributor; authorised_representative |" }, { "id": "thresholds", "heading": "Thresholds and exemptions in Colorado and Germany", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## Thresholds and exemptions in Colorado and Germany\n\nEvery verified threshold Colorado and Germany publish, as each states it.\n\n**Verified thresholds in Colorado and Germany**\n\n| Place | Measure | Amount | Effect | Basis as published |\n| --- | --- | ---: | --- | --- |\n| Colorado | revenue | $5,000,000 | exempt below | realized gross total revenue, prior calendar year, excluding on-premises alcohol sales |\n| Colorado | packaging tonnage | 1 short ton | exempt below | covered materials used for products sold or distributed in or into Colorado, prior calendar year |\n| Colorado | packaging tonnage | 10 short tons | flat-fee band | covered materials supplied into Colorado |\n| Germany | packaging tonnage | 80 tonnes | declaration-of-completeness trigger | glass placed on the German market in the previous calendar year (reached or exceeded) |\n| Germany | packaging tonnage | 50 tonnes | declaration-of-completeness trigger | paper, paperboard and cardboard in total, previous calendar year (reached or exceeded) |\n| Germany | packaging tonnage | 30 tonnes | declaration-of-completeness trigger | ferrous metals, aluminium, plastics, beverage cartons and other composites in total, previous calendar year (reached or exceeded) |\n| Germany | packaging tonnage | 10 tonnes | reduced duty | packaging subject to system participation made available for the first time in the previous calendar year |\n\nColorado exemption: Exempt from Part 7: revenue under the dollar limit, under one ton of covered materials, state or local government, nonprofit, an agricultural employer with under $5 million in-state consumer sales of its own-brand farm products, a single licensed retail food establishment at a physical location, and builders, construction companies and contractors. It does not have to be applied for.\n\nRead the basis column first: the same amount can exempt a producer in one programme and only simplify its report in another." }, { "id": "rates", "heading": "Fees per kilogram for shared materials", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## Fees per kilogram for shared materials\n\nColorado publishes per-kilogram rates in the dataset; Germany does not. Reason: Dual-system participation fees are set by each operator's contract and no public tariff has been retrieved; the fee engine asks for the customer's contracted rates instead of estimating. The rows therefore show Colorado only. Until both sides publish per-kilogram rates for the same material class, a fee comparison between Colorado and Germany would mean inventing a figure, and this page does not do that.\n\n> **Not yet published**: Germany: no verified per-kilogram fee schedule is in the dataset yet. Reason: Dual-system participation fees are set by each operator's contract and no public tariff has been retrieved; the fee engine asks for the customer's contracted rates instead of estimating.\n\nColorado: the 2027 fee schedule of Circular Action Alliance (Colorado PRO), effective January 1, 2027, is the source of the per-kilogram rates used on this page.\n\nColorado 2027: the category “Kraft Paper” is published at 9.0 cents per pound.\n\nColorado 2027: the category “HDPE (#2)/LDPE (#4) Flexible and Film Items” is published at 62.0 cents per pound.\n\nColorado 2027: the category “Glass Bottles and Jars & Other Containers” is published at 5.0 cents per pound." }, { "id": "deadlines", "heading": "Deadlines in Colorado and Germany", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## Deadlines in Colorado and Germany\n\nEach verified date, with the period it covers when one is given.\n\n**Verified deadlines in Colorado and Germany**\n\n| Place | Kind | Date | Covers |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Colorado | payment | January 1, 2026 | program year 2026 |\n| Colorado | other | January 1, 2026 | not yet published |\n| Germany | report | June 1, 2027 | calendar year 2026 |\n| Germany | report | December 31, 2026 | calendar year 2027 |\n| Germany | report | May 15, 2027 | calendar year 2026 |\n\n> **Not yet published**: Not yet published for Colorado: the supply report date. Reason: No Colorado report date was on the CAA or CDPHE pages read.\n\n> **Not yet published**: Not yet published for Colorado: the plan implementation date. Reason: CDPHE gives a season, not a date." }, { "id": "penalties", "heading": "Penalties in Colorado and Germany", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## Penalties in Colorado and Germany\n\nWhat each side has published; a side without an amount says so.\n\nColorado penalty for First violation of Part 7 by a producer or producer responsibility organization: up to $5,000 for the first day, then up to $1,500 per day the violation continues.\n\nColorado penalty for Second violation within twelve months after a prior violation: up to $10,000 for the first day, then up to $3,000 per day the violation continues.\n\nColorado penalty for Third or later violation within twelve months after two or more prior violations: up to $20,000 for the first day, then up to $6,000 per day the violation continues.\n\n> **Not yet published**: Not yet published for Germany: penalty amounts. Reason: The fine amounts sit in the statute, which was not readable. Nothing is recorded rather than guessed." }, { "id": "formats", "heading": "Report formats in Colorado and Germany", "kind": "body", "markdown": "\n\n## Report formats in Colorado and Germany\n\nHow the report file for Colorado compares with the one for Germany.\n\n**Report file layouts for Colorado and Germany**\n\n| Aspect | Colorado | Germany |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Layout | Colorado producer supply report by material category 2026-09-29 (built from CAA Colorado 2026 dues schedule) | LUCID producer volume report (XML upload, section 10 VerpackG) XML interface 1.0, guide version 1.3 (12 August 2026), VerpackG material codes (reports 2019 to 2026) |\n| Recipient | Circular Action Alliance (Colorado PRO) | Stiftung Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (ZSVR), LUCID packaging register |\n| How it is submitted | CAA producer portal. The customer signs in and submits. | LUCID XML upload. The customer signs in, uploads the file, checks the displayed data and confirms. |\n| File type | csv | xml |\n| Encoding | utf-8 | utf-8-sig |\n| Delimiter | , | not yet published |\n| Decimal separator | . | , |\n| Columns | 4 | 8 |\n| Required columns | 4 of 4 | 8 of 8 |\n| Weight unit | lb | kg |\n| Period basis | calendar year | calendar year |\n\n> **Not yet published**: Colorado: the programme’s own report specification is not yet published. Reason: CAA retired its public Colorado guidance page on Aug 10, 2026; the reporting categories and tools are now only inside the Producer Portal, behind registration. The layout above is Instica’s working layout.\n\nGermany report specification: XML producer volume report with elements VersionNoInterface, PackagingTypeCode, TypeOfReportCode, ReportingPeriodFrom, ReportingPeriodTo and one SystemOperator with its SystemOperatorID and a Material list (MaterialCode, Mass).\n\nThe two layouts differ in file shape as well as in columns, so a report built for Colorado cannot be sent to Germany unchanged. Each report is built from the same underlying measurements and exported separately." }, { "id": "faq", "heading": "Questions about comparing these two programmes", "kind": "faq", "markdown": "\n\n## Questions about comparing these two programmes\n\n### Is Colorado or Germany stricter on packaging EPR?\n\nBoth require producers to register.\n\n### Do I register in both Colorado and Germany?\n\nColorado requires producers to register. Germany requires producers to register.\n\n### How do the fees per kilogram compare in Colorado and Germany?\n\nThe dataset does not hold per-kilogram rates for the same material class on both sides, so this page does not compare fees.\n\n### Which deadline comes first, Colorado or Germany?\n\nThe dataset does not hold a verified annual report date on both sides, so this page does not say which comes first." }, { "id": "estimate", "heading": "How these figures are made", "kind": "boilerplate", "markdown": "\n\n## How these figures are made\n\n> **Estimate**: Instica measures, estimates and prepares. Every figure on this page is read from a sourced record or computed from one, and each carries its data quality. Converted amounts are approximate and name the exchange rate used. The customer signs and submits each report; Instica never stores regulator login details and never files on your behalf. This page is general information about published rules; confirm your own position with a qualified adviser." } ], "sources": [ { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "In 2022, Governor Polis signed the Producer Responsibility Program for Statewide Recycling Act into law", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "CDPHE appointed Circular Action Alliance as the designated Producer Responsibility Organization in May 2023.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "a producer cannot sell or distribute products that use covered materials in Colorado unless they participate in the Producer Responsibility Program", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "All producers of paper products and packaging materials should register with Circular Action Alliance and submit a supply report.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://cdphe.colorado.gov/producer-responsibility-program", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Interchange 360 manages the recycling of automotive lubricant packaging, such as motor oil and antifreeze.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "in realized gross total revenue, not including on-premises alcohol sales, during the prior calendar year", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "the person that is the licensee of a brand or trademark under which a packaged item is sold or distributed in the state", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "A person with less than five million dollars in realized gross total revenue, not including on-premises alcohol sales, during the prior calendar year", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "has used less than one ton of covered materials for products sold or distributed within or into the state", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2026-Dues-Schedule-Public.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Producers who supply 10 tons or less of covered materials into the state are eligible to pay flat dues according to the following schedule", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-713", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "A producer is exempt from the requirements of this part 7 if the producer is", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-709", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "no later than January 1, 2026, and annually thereafter by a date determined by the organization", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-709", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "By January 1, 2026, and each year thereafter, the executive director shall develop an eco-modulation bonus schedule", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2022a_1355_signed.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-05", "status": "verified", "quote": "FIRST VIOLATION, AN INITIAL PENALTY OF FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR THE FIRST DAY OF EACH VIOLATION AND ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS PER DAY", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2022a_1355_signed.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-05", "status": "verified", "quote": null, "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://colorado.public.law/statutes/crs_25-17-703", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "means any material, regardless of recyclability, that is intended for single or short-term use", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2026-Dues-Schedule-Public.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Material Class Covered Material Type Base Dues Detriments Malus Not on MRL Malus High Recycling Rates Bonus Final Dues", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/system-participation", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "you must finance the recycling of your packaging by participating that packaging in a system.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "The Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister (Central Agency Packaging Register – ZSVR) and the competent state authorities", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "If you are distributing packaged goods in Germany, you have to be registered with the LUCID Packaging Register.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "you must register with the LUCID Packaging Register. Registering is free of charge.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/system-participation", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "You can conclude your system participation agreement with the system operator of your choice.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/system-participation", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "you are required to conclude a system participation agreement with a system operator.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/first-steps/distinguishing-between-manufacturers-producers", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-11-04", "status": "verified", "quote": "A producer is every natural or legal person who, as a manufacturer, importer or distributor, makes a unit of packaging available for the first time", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Glass: 80 tonnes", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Paper, paperboard, cardboard (PPC) in total: 50 tonnes", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Ferrous metals + aluminium + plastics + beverage cartons + other composites (lightweight packaging) in total: 30 tonnes", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/data-reporting", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "A simplified reporting requirement applies to producers who made available less than 10 tonnes of packaging subject to system participation", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/data-reporting", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Year-end volume reports for the previous year (actual volumes) can only be filed up to 1 June.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/data-reporting", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "Initial planned volume reports for the following year can only be filed by 31 December of the current year.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/system-participation-data-reporting/declaration-of-completeness", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "by no later than 15 May of any given year for the previous year.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/en/registration/find-out-about-registrations", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-29", "status": "verified", "quote": "There are two different packaging categories: packaging subject to system participation and packaging not subject to system participation.", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "quote": "2027 Colorado Producer Dues Schedule Dues for Program Year 2027", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "quote": "Kraft Paper MRL $0.09 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.09", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "quote": "HDPE (#2)/LDPE (#4) Flexible and Film Items AML $0.62 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.62", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://circularactionalliance.org/s/CO-2027DuesSchedule_100126.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-10-22", "status": "verified", "quote": "Glass Bottles and Jars & Other Containers MRL $0.05 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.05", "quoteLang": null }, { "url": "https://www.verpackungsregister.org/fileadmin/files/LUCID/Anleitung_XML_Datenmeldung_EN.pdf", "label": null, "retrievedAt": "2026-09-30", "status": "verified", "quote": "Mass: packaging material mass in kg to the third decimal place without thousands separators (decimal place demarcated with comma).", "quoteLang": null } ], "breadcrumbs": [ { "name": "Packaging EPR", "url": "https://instica.com/epr" }, { "name": "Compare EPR between states: Compare packaging EPR between jurisdictions", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare" }, { "name": "Colorado vs Germany EPR: Rules Compared", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany" } ], "related": [ { "heading": "Part of", "links": [ { "anchor": "Colorado EPR threshold", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/colorado" } ] }, { "heading": "Explore packaging EPR", "links": [ { "anchor": "United States packaging EPR: 7 jurisdictions", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/united-states" } ] }, { "heading": "More for this jurisdiction", "links": [ { "anchor": "Germany EPR", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/germany" } ] }, { "heading": "Related pages", "links": [ { "anchor": "Colorado vs Italy EPR: Rules Compared", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-italy" }, { "anchor": "Colorado vs Manitoba EPR: Rules Compared", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-manitoba" }, { "anchor": "Colorado vs Minnesota EPR: Rules Compared", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-minnesota" }, { "anchor": "Colorado vs New Brunswick EPR: Rules Compared", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-new-brunswick" }, { "anchor": "Colorado vs Nova Scotia EPR: Rules Compared", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-nova-scotia" }, { "anchor": "Colorado vs Yukon EPR: Rules Compared", "url": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-yukon" } ] } ], "alternates": [ { "hreflang": "en-US", "href": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany" }, { "hreflang": "x-default", "href": "https://instica.com/epr/compare/colorado-vs-germany" } ] }