What are extended producer responsibility laws, and how are they relevant to the operations of quick lube shops?
In November, David Lawes, CEO of the Lubricants Packaging Management Association powered by Interchange 360, was a guest on the NOLN Podcast to discuss the ramifications of EPR laws for quick lube operators.
Here were three key takeaways from that discussion:
EPR laws are expanding and will affect the quick lube industry. Extended producer responsibility laws are already in place in several states and are expected to grow by about two states per year, Lawes said. While aimed at manufacturers, these laws will indirectly impact quick lube operators through new recycling requirements and potential cost pass-throughs.
Quick lube operators will need to recycle oil containers differently. As EPR laws roll out, landfill bans on lubricant containers are likely to follow. Quick lube shops will need to separate and recycle oil containers, often using the same vendors that already collect used oil—helping operators avoid fines while improving environmental outcomes.
Costs may rise, but infrastructure and advocacy are in place. Recycling programs come with costs that may show up downstream for quick lube operators. However, LPMA is working to minimize financial impact, leverage proven systems from Canada, and push back against burdensome requirements like mandatory retail take-back programs.
For more information and insights about EPR laws, listen to this full NOLN Podcast episode with David Lawes, originally published on Nov. 6, 2025:
