Navigating SB 54: What Businesses Need to Know as California Revisits Packaging Legislation

Discover how California’s SB 54 packaging law is evolving and what your business needs to know. Learn how Bay Cities can help you stay compliant and sustainable.

You may have heard of SB 54, the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, a transformative step in California’s approach to packaging waste and recycling. While this groundbreaking legislation was signed into law in 2022, it is now undergoing a regulatory reset to address implementation concerns. 

Governor Newsom recently directed CalRecycle to restart the regulatory process after deadlines were not met and stakeholder feedback called for a more balanced approach. Though the timeline for revised rules is still unfolding, one thing is clear: SB 54 is still moving forward, just with refinements. 

What’s Changing — And What’s Not 

With 7-14 day lead times, Bay Cities is one of the fastest and most innovative in the industry. Our speed, creativity, and turnkey solutions alleviate stress as we partner with your sales and marketing teams in the making of retail programs. 

During a recent advisory board meeting, CalRecycle emphasized that, while rulemaking is being reworked, core elements of SB 54 remain intact. By 2032: 

• “100 percent of single-use packaging and plastic food serviceware sold in the state is recyclable or compostable; 

• 65 percent of single-use plastic packaging and food serviceware is recycled; and 

• 25 percent less single-use plastic packaging and food serviceware is sold.” 

Source: Newsom orders SB 54 revision - Recycling Today 

CalRecycle is revising its draft regulations to minimize cost burdens on small businesses and working families and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), such as Circular Action Alliance, will still be required to manage and fund recycling systems.

What’s How Bay Cities Helps You Prepare 

Whether the regulations are being written, rewritten, or rolled out, Bay Cities remains a trusted partner. As sustainability leaders in the packaging industry, we’re committed to guiding businesses through these changes while offering insight and innovative, eco-friendly solutions.  

We design and produce 100% recyclable corrugated packaging made from up to 99% recycled materials. Our corrugator uses the off energy from a recycled paper mill to power our corrugator, meaning zero added gas emissions and zero waste. 

Additionally, our team is dedicated to helping you navigate Extended Producer Regulations (EPR), such as SB 54, and the evolving regulatory process that will impact your packaging design and materials.  

Not sure what EPR means for your business? Keep an eye on our blog, as we will be breaking it down in upcoming posts to help you stay informed and ahead of the curve. 

A Partner You Can Count On  

While the specifics of SB 54’s implementation may be evolving, the direction is clear: California is prioritizing waste reduction and producer responsibility. And Bay Cities is right there, innovating, adapting, and helping our partners lead with purpose. 

Let’s make packaging part of the solution. Ready to explore more sustainable options? Contact us today to learn how your business can thrive in a circular, eco-forward economy, with or without regulatory uncertainty.