Many countries, including Canada, have actively implemented policies and programs to prevent pollution and promote waste minimization. Yet, environmental pressures are still increasing and the generation of wastes and the management of their disposal continues to be a concern.

In the face of these challenges, and in the interests of supporting sustainable development objectives, new policies and programs are being evaluated, developed and implemented both by government and by businesses. Key among these approaches are Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and stewardship.