Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

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The Connecticut Product Stewardship Council

Images of TV, mattresses, computers and paint can

In order to promote a "product stewardship", or "producer responsibility" system for financing the end of life management of certain waste streams in Connecticut, local governments, regional councils of elected officials, state government, businesses, environmental advocacy groups, and concerned citizens are invited to participate in the Connecticut Product Stewardship Council.

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Connecticut's Product Stewardship Council and its objectives:

Why is there a need for a Connecticut Product Stewardship Council?

By forming a Product Stewardship Council, Connecticut municipalities can better coordinate product stewardship programs. In some cases, legislation may be needed to implement a product stewardship initiative. A Council can advocate for any necessary legislation through their local representatives. Manufacturers working at the national level with groups such as the Product Stewardship Institute (PSI), sometimes seek opportunities to establish pilot programs. They favor conducting pilots in states that are organized and have a demonstrated commitment to product stewardship principles.

What are the benefits of having a Connecticut Product Stewardship Council?

Product stewardship programs can save municipalities money spent on household hazardous waste and other waste management programs. The electronics recycling law is an example of a program where the cost of recycling computers and televisions has been passed from the municipality to the manufacturer. Battery manufacturers have had a stewardship program in place in Connecticut since 1995 which allows residents to drop off their rechargeable batteries and cell phones without cost at retail locations.

What are the specific Connecticut product stewardship initiatives?

Connecticut specific initiatives include electronics, paint and mattresses.

Who can join the Connecticut Product Stewardship Council?

Anyone who supports the principles of product stewardship and signs the Letter of Agreement can participate in the Council. There is no membership fee or any financial obligation to join. Participants can attend Council meetings and conference calls, volunteer for committees and receive information on the product stewardship initiatives.

If you are interested in participating in the Connecticut Product Stewardship Council, sign the Letter of Agreement and return it to:

Tom Metzner
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
79 Elm St 
Hartford, CT 06106

If you have any questions, e-mail Tom Metzner or call him at (860)424-3242.

  • Academic
    • Connecticut College  
  • Business
    • WeRecycle 
  • Individuals
    • Melissa Maciaug  
  • Municipalities
    • Avon
    • Branford
    • Hamden
    • Middletown
    • Naugatuck
    • North Haven
    • Orange
    • Salisbury/Sharon
    • Woodbury 
  • Non Profits
    • Clean Water Action
    • Connecticut Recycler's Coalition 
    • Sierra Club
  • Regional Governments
    • Central Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments
    • Connecticut Council of Municipalities  
    • Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority
    • Litchfield Hills CEO/Northwest COG
    • Southeastern Connecticut Regional Resources Recovery Authority
  • Regional HHWs
    • Capitol Region East Operating Committee
    • Haz Waste Central  
    • Metropolitan District
CT Product Stewardship Council Meeting Minutes (all pdfs)

Content last updated March 2012