PACK Act

The Packaging and Claims Knowledge Act of 2025 (PACK Act) amends the Federal Trade Commission Act to establish stringent requirements for environmental marketing claims on consumer product packaging. It specifically addresses claims related to recyclability , compostability , and reusability , aiming to prevent deceptive practices and ensure transparency for consumers. For recyclable claims , the bill prohibits false statements and generally requires companies to qualify claims by informing consumers about the availability of recycling programs, unless a substantial majority (60% or more) of consumers have access and the entire package is recyclable. Packaging is not considered recyclable if a component significantly limits recycling or if its shape/size prevents acceptance in programs. Regarding compostable claims , the bill mandates competent scientific evidence and requires qualifications if the packaging cannot be safely home-composted, misleads about landfill benefits, or if municipal composting facilities are not widely available. For reusable claims , unqualified assertions are only permitted if the company provides a system for collection and reuse or offers a product for consumers to reuse the original packaging. A crucial provision requires that all compostable, recyclable, or reusable claims must be certified by an accredited third-party certification body . Furthermore, packaging not eligible for these claims is prohibited from bearing the chasing arrows resin identification code, allowing only an equilateral triangle. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is tasked with issuing guidance within two years to ensure compliance and must establish an advisory council with industry stakeholders. Violations of these provisions will be treated as unfair or deceptive acts or practices, and the bill preempts any non-identical state or local laws concerning these claims.