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Greetings!
Issue
- The United States has proposed tariffs affecting a broad range of Canadian products, including paperboard, corrugated boxes and other paper packaging products.
- The proposal remains subject to change, and the situation continues to be dynamic.
- While the Paper and Paperboard Packaging Environmental Council (PPEC) does not take a position on trade policy, renewed discussion of proposed U.S. tariffs provides an opportunity to consider potential environmental implications and how they could influence packaging decisions and sustainability planning.
- PPEC first examined the environmental implications of potential tariffs in March 2025. This Infosheet summarizes PPEC's environmental considerations, provides additional resources for members, and reflects information available as of July 23, 2026.
Environmental Considerations
As businesses assess the potential implications of proposed tariffs, environmental considerations should be evaluated alongside economic and operational factors.
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Material choices: If tariffs make some packaging materials more expensive, businesses may consider alternative materials.
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Sustainability planning: Trade uncertainty may make it more difficult for businesses to plan or invest in waste reduction and other sustainability initiatives.
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Recycling: If cost pressures lead businesses to change packaging materials, there may be implications for recycling and efforts to keep valuable materials in the circular economy.
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Lessons from previous policy decisions: China's National Sword Policy demonstrates how government actions can influence recycling markets and packaging decisions.
Association Statements and Resources
The following resources provide additional information and industry perspectives on the proposed U.S. tariffs.
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