The article considers scientific and practical issues of forming an effective organizational and economic mechanism for extended producer responsibility (EPR). The successful operation of the EPR-system in Russia can be useful as a basis for the development of the waste collection, treatment and disposal infrastructure that covers the operating costs of participants, as well as for the creation of a favourable investment environment. The systemic structural analysis of the European and Russian experience of using the extended producer responsibility system is conducted. The fundamental problems hindering the successful functioning of the EPR in Russia are uncovered. The mechanism for EPR subjects interacting is proposed, which allows improving it and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the waste management system.