Mention take-back requirements and waste-conscious Europe probably comes to mind—certainly not Latin America, where such mandates have been virtually nonexistent.

Until now, that is.

Under a new law, Rio de Janeiro state is set to become the first jurisdiction in Latin America to require take-back of plastic packaging. Importers, manufacturers and fillers (bottlers and others who fill plastic containers) will have to ensure recovery of plastic packaging after it’s used—and also provide for proper disposal or recycling.

Similar legislation is being considered at the national level in Brazil. Indeed, plastics measures are being studied in several Latin nations.

The Rio de Janeiro state legislation, Law 3.369/2000, was signed Jan. 7 by Governor Anthony Garotinho; it will not take effect until after its implementing regulations are issued—perhaps as early as April, officials say.

The measure requires all plastic packaging waste to be disposed of in “an environmentally adequate manner.” And it defines that term narrowly: Recycling or reuse is included, but not landfilling or incineration.