Study on the Availability of Postconsumer Recycled Plastic in the Market, DRR26039

CalRecycle, the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, is soliciting proposals under RFP DRR26039 for a study on the availability of postconsumer recycled plastic in the market, with a mandatory Proposer's Conference on November 6, 2026 and proposals due December 16, 2026 by 2:00 p.m. Proposers must attend the entire conference to be eligible to submit.

The contract requires a minimum of 25% participation from California certified Small Businesses, which qualifies proposers for a 5% preference. It also requires a minimum of 3% participation from Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, which earns incentive points of one to five percent depending on participation level.

The contractor will obtain data substantiating whether beverage manufacturers can achieve minimum postconsumer recycled standards, informing CalRecycle's adjustment of the minimum postconsumer recycled plastic content standard under Assembly Bill 793 and Public Resources Code Section 14547. Work includes data collection, analysis, and reporting, with engagement of beverage manufacturers, processors, reclaimers, and industry stakeholders. Proposers must demonstrate expertise in economic analysis, market research, and the postconsumer recycled plastics industry, and submit references and writing samples. Contract terms include confidentiality, data governance, and generative artificial intelligence provisions.

The maximum contract budget is $1 million over an approximately 24-month term with an expected start in January 2027, and CalRecycle reserves the right to amend the term as needs arise. Payments are made in arrears on monthly invoices, with 10% withheld per task until all required work is completed to CalRecycle's satisfaction.

Written questions are due November 16, 2026, and the Notice of Intent to Award will be posted January 5, 2027. Submissions must go through the Authorium electronic bid system.