THE QUICK ANSWER
Remove a part, thin it or switch materials. For California SB 54, compare plastic weight and part count separately. Test the pack in its sales channel and confirm reporting with the responsible producer.
What California changed on 2 November
CalRecycle replaced the modeled 2023 baseline with producer-reported data and published source reduction guidance on 2 November 2026. The baseline is a statewide benchmark, not your old pack specification. The agency says some reports are missing or need correction. The update does not start a new law or set a reduction percentage for each pet accessory SKU.
CalRecycle · source reduction baseline update · 2 November 2026
Record weight and count before redesigning
Use the same sales unit and packaging boundary for both versions. List the sleeve, tie, hanger and label separately; note where each is used, including transport packaging if relevant. For mixed parts, keep whole-part weight separate from plastic weight. If a film layer cannot be weighed separately, ask for a material breakdown. The buyer’s reporting team determines which parts count under the program.
Remove a part before changing its material
A folded dog leash held by a paper band may not need a separate plastic tie. Try removing it if it serves no other purpose. A thinner sleeve may lower plastic weight while leaving the count unchanged. If a paper band replaces the sleeve, check whether the sleeve was keeping dust off the webbing or containing loose hardware. Ask whether the paper has a plastic coating.
Trial the pack the retailer will receive
Check barcode readability after folding, how the pack hangs or stacks, and whether the clip rubs the leash in transit. A band that works on an open shelf may need a different pack-out for parcel delivery. Record the old and new versions, channel and review date. Confirm the bill of packaging materials and quote against the version that passes.
Hand over measurements before making claims
CalRecycle describes the statewide targets as collective, implemented through the producer responsibility organization’s plan. Producers contribute through their participation and reporting. Recycled content alone does not remove a part or make a pack lighter; any credit depends on the approved formula. The comparison also does not establish recyclability, exemptions or which entity is responsible for a specific SKU.
Compare three changes to the same leash pack
| Design change | What to record | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Remove a tie | Removed plastic weight; confirm count | Leash stays folded |
| Use a thinner sleeve | Plastic weight; sleeve still present | Seal and puncture resistance |
| Switch to a paper band | Coatings, labels and added fasteners | Barcode, shelf fit and shipment protection |
Questions buyers ask
How do I weigh a mixed part?
Keep a separate value for its plastic content. If unknown, request the breakdown.
Does a thinner sleeve reduce the component count?
The sleeve remains. Measure its weight and have the producer confirm the count.
Does recycled film automatically qualify for reduction credit?
No. CalRecycle requires an approved formula in the producer responsibility plan.
Must each SKU cut plastic by 25 percent?
No. CalRecycle describes the 2032 target as collective. Confirm your own reporting and participation duties.
What should go in the sample brief?
Send both pack versions, the channel, component list and the protection and display checks.
Evidence and scope
This comparison applies to packaging decisions for California sales. Catidog develops private-label accessories and has a commercial interest. The examples are design options; no product-specific packaging test, exemption or compliance credit is claimed.
- CalRecycle · source reduction baseline update · 2 November 2026
- CalRecycle · SB 54 source reduction guidance
Publication note: first published on 9 November 2026.
How we research and writeRelated products and reading
Dog leash: review the finished item and its clipDevelopment services: specify the revised packBuyer FAQ: confirm quotation detailsBuyer resources: record the specificationPackaging barcode guide: verify the revised labelPack-out and freight: check transit protectionDiscuss this requirement
Developing a pet accessory for California retail? Send the item, destination, current pack and sales channel so we can review the proposed changes against the product and pack-out.
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