RLG Spotlight: The Plastics Recycling Conference and Textile Recovery Summit 2025
Plastics Recycling Conference and Textile Recovery Summit
Experts from Reverse Logistics Group (RLG) recently attended the Plastics Recycling Conference and Textile Recovery Summit at National Harbor, Maryland, held from March 24 to 26, 2025.
Representing RLG were Andriana Kontovrakis, Director of EPR Solutions, and Denise Diorio McVeigh, Customer Engagement & Business Development Manager, bringing their extensive expertise in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) compliance to this pivotal event.
Center Stage in Textiles Policy
Andriana Kontovrakis’ was a panelist on the Textiles Policy Stage, held on Tuesday, March 25. Alongside other thought leaders such as Dr. Joanne Brasch (Director of Advocacy, California Product Stewardship Council), Jessica Franken (Government Affairs Director, SMART), and Chelsea Murtha (Senior Director, Sustainability, AAFA), Andriana shared insights into critical areas shaping the future of textile circularity. The session, moderated by Marisa Adler (Senior Consultant, RRS), explored essential topics, including:
- Advancing textile circularity through EPR
- Preparation for California’s SB 707 Responsible Textile Recovery EPR Law
- Defining textile recycling standards
- Data collection and reporting for compliance
This discussion illuminated the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing effective textile recycling frameworks, especially as new legislation takes shape.
Andriana Kontovrakis highlighted the potential environmental benefits of textile EPR and how this bill looks beyond recycling and puts an emphasis on reuse and repair.
Producers should start preparing their data now. While the elements of data collection have not been definitively defined, they will likely include sales data into the state of California, weight by SKU or product type, and fiber attributes of their textile products. It’s not just apparel; it’s footwear, towels, linens, and more,” Kontovrakis said.
The formation of a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) was another key topic. The panelists discussed the steps involved in establishing a PRO, including the need for collaboration among producers, clear governance structures, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Driving Change in Circularity with Women Leaders
Early morning on March 26th , Andriana joined the Women in Circularity panel, a session dedicated to highlighting the invaluable contributions of women leading sustainability initiatives. Moderated by MaryEllen Etienne (Director, U.S. Green Building Council), the panel featured trailblazing women including Katie Drews (Co-President and CEO, Eureka Recycling) and Beth Forsberg (CSO, Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona) and Celeste McMickle (Director, Client Solutions, U.S. Green Building Council). Key topics covered included:
- Career Advancement: Sharing strategies to navigate the circular economy landscape, overcome challenges and seize growth opportunities
- Sharing Best Practices: Exchanging successful methods that drive circularity efforts
- Amplifying Your Work: Offering tips on promoting your achievements, building a personal brand and expanding your influence
- Mapping Industry Trends: Discussing emerging trends, innovations and potential disruptions that are shaping the future of circularity.
Andriana’s insights showcased RLG’s leadership in circular and EPR initiatives and championed the role of diverse voices in driving meaningful change across industries.
RLG’s Commitment to Textile EPR Support
RLG remains deeply committed to supporting producers in meeting their EPR obligations under California’s SB 707, as well as any other existing or pending textile EPR laws currently under discussion in the United States and worldwide.
Signed into law in September 2024, SB 707 establishes a framework for managing textile waste through recycling, reuse, and repair. This legislation amplifies accountability across the textile lifecycle, enabling a more sustainable future for the industry.
With RLG’s proven global expertise in EPR compliance, including working within textile EPR programs overseas, we are uniquely positioned to guide businesses through this new regulatory landscape.
Build a Sustainable Future with RLG
The Plastics Recycling Conference and Textile Recovery Summit showcased the industry’s commitment to collaboration and circularity for a sustainable future.
If you have questions about textile EPR, data collection for textile waste management, or other areas of EPR compliance, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how RLG can support your business and sustainability goals.
Together, we can transform waste into opportunity and advance the circular economy. Reach out at Contact Us.
