In accordance with environmental regulations in Washington State designating minimum recycled content for plastic packaging, the Department of Ecology has announced fines for 35 companies.  The total amounting to $416,000 includes individual penalties ranging from $6,000 to $67,000.  Clorox received the highest fine based on low recycled content in packaging.  In 2018 the company achieved an 11 percent content of post-consumer recycled plastic with a target of 22 percent by 2030.  At the end of 2023 the level was in fact lower at 10 percent.  Albertsons a major grocery chain in the state was fined $42,000 for noncompliance with the 2021 law mandating inclusion of recycled plastic in containers.

In contrast the State reported that 93 producers met or exceeded required benchmarks, “Recognizing the value of using recycled content in their products.”

The State of Washington is negotiating with noncompliant companies to suspend fines subject to corrective action plans and demonstrated future compliance.