Maine Excludes Carpet from Potential Mandates

Dalton, GA, Dec. 20, 2010 -- Citing the strength of the carpet industry's recycling efforts, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has not included carpet among its list of products to be considered for inclusion under the state's proposed mandated product stewardship legislation, according to the Carpet and Rug Institute.

Following the passage of product stewardship legislation, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection was tasked with preparing a report to be presented to the Joint Standing Committee on Natural Resources that identified potential industries that might become the focus of mandates.

The report states, "At this time, the Department is not recommending legislation to require a product stewardship program for carpet, but it is continuing to work with the carpet industry in support of its voluntary product stewardship initiative."