America Recycles Day celebrated its 28th year with significant investments and recognitions geared toward improving recycling infrastructure, supported by many entities.

GPI is pleased to be a supporter of Rep. Haley Stevens' America Recycles Day resolution, a bipartisan statement issued to "celebrate recycling, drive public awareness, and spark action toward a cleaner, more sustainable future."

Wine importers and retailers in the US are preparing for higher prices and reduced selections as they face steep tariffs, including a 15% tariff on EU imports. Bottled wine prices have increased nearly 20% over the past 25 years due to climate change, inflation and rising production costs. Elenteny Imports reports a 13% decline in wine sales this year and expects a further 30% drop in order volumes for 2025.

Glass is returning to the forefront of priorities for pharmaceutical manufacturing, due to its superior sustainability credentials and its infinite recyclability without any quality degradation. Glass excels in safety and effectiveness while also being fully recyclable and environmentally responsible.

Winners of the Beer Institute's "Best in Brew" awards for this year cover the spectrum from brewing to supply chain. "From grain to glass, these industry leaders ensure beer continues to be a cornerstone of our economy, our communities and our culture," says Brian Crawford, president and CEO of the Beer Institute.

The limited-edition Cincoro Jack Añejo bottle, created in partnership with Travis Scott, features a visually striking design. The bottle transforms Cincoro's iconic silhouette with a deep chocolate-brown gradient finish and a co-branded logo that merges Scott's Cactus Jack style with Cincoro's refined minimalism. This collector's item is intended to be a centerpiece for tequila enthusiasts and fans of Scott's creative vision.

Oregon wineries are facing steep fees under the new RecycleOn program, with some businesses paying more than their corporate activities taxes. The wine industry is questioning the necessity and transparency of these fees, particularly when Oregon already has high glass recycling rates. The economic strain is compounded by a challenging market environment, making the financial burden of the program a significant issue.

US lawmakers have closed a loophole that allowed food and beverage companies to sell hemp-derived THC products, limiting THC content to 0.4 mg per container. The move, which takes effect in 2026, is expected to eliminate 95% of hemp products, affecting a $28.4 billion industry, and comes as the alcohol industry faces declining sales.

District of Columbia Council member Brianne Nadeau has introduced the Recycling Refund and Litter Reduction Amendment Act, which would create a beverage container deposit program to reduce trash in the Anacostia River. The proposal faces opposition from Mayor Muriel Bowser, who says it would raise costs for consumers and businesses, but Nadeau says the proposal would not raise costs, and she notes the effectiveness of similar legislation in other states.

Independence, Iowa, has opened a 24/7 recycling drop-off depot in partnership with Kluesner Sanitation, marking a significant step in the city's sustainability efforts. The facility accepts glass for recycling, a long-requested service from residents, and aims to increase landfill diversion.

Glass packaging is gaining renewed attention in the spirits-based RTD segment, driven by regulatory changes and a shift toward sustainable and high-quality materials. In this podcast, the Glass Packaging Institute, Sandstrom Partners and Jimmy Bruton of Via Carota discuss the advantages of glass, which is nontoxic, inert, and especially sustainable when produced domestically, offering significant benefits for both brands and consumers seeking clean and reliable packaging.