Partnering for Sustainability – Success Stories

Product Stewardship Institute – as presented by Scott Cassel, Executive Director

The Product Stewardship Institute (PSI) is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 2000 to coordinate product stewardship initiatives on a national level. PSI works with state and local government agencies to partner with key stakeholders to solve waste management problems involving retail products. They encourage product design changes and mediate stakeholder dialogues.

PSI helps governments have a focused voice on product stewardship issues; they work with 37 states at the secretary or commissioner level, as well as 34 local government agencies. By working in a coordinated approach, PSI can address the needs of various stakeholders, create a more efficient environment for project development, encourage information sharing, and facilitate negotiations for change.

Benefits to everyone: A coordinated approach that builds political momentum and makes everyone feel as though they have a seat at the table.

Throughout this process the PSI has recognized that different partners have very different needs:

Governments' needs include:
  •  The recognition by others that there is a problem
  •  Joint responsibility for solutions
  •  A sustainable financing system for product stewardship
  •  Product design changes

Industry's needs include:
  •  Evidence that a problem exists
  •  Market-based solutions
  •  A more level playing field for manufacturers

Environmental groups’ needs include:
  •  Full producer responsibility


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