The NERC-APR Government Recycling Demand Champions is a national program to promote the purchase of products with post-consumer content.

The Program was created to foster and build the end-use marketplace through government purchasing action. Collectively and voluntarily, Demand Champions look to improve plastics recycling in North America by committing to increase their use of post-consumer plastic resin (PCR). 

Government Demand Champions commit to supporting end-market demand by purchasing PCR containing items. Examples include:

• Benches
• Decking
• Drainage pipes
• Garbage containers
• Office supplies
• Outdoor furniture
• Pallets
• Paving tiles
• Recycling containers
• Roll-out carts
• Trash bags and Gaylord liners

Participants in the Government Recycling Demand Champion Program recognize that:

• Consistent, reliable demand for recycled plastic is critical for recycling to be mature, vibrant, and sustainable.
• A strong demand-pull for recycled plastics is needed to ensure not only the maintenance of but also the building of a more robust recycling supply chain.

Demand Champions look for their efforts to:

• Strengthen and increase domestic demand for residential mixed plastics.
• Help prevent “ocean plastics” by stimulating strong North American markets.
• Boost a “circular economy” for plastic packaging.
• Mitigate reliance on export markets.

For more information, contact Mariane Medeiros.