Common Recycling Symbols Explained

We all know that in order to protect our environment it is important that we recycle as much as possible, however sometimes it is not as easy as we originally thought or is made out. There are now many different symbols appearing on packaging to advise consumers and promote environmental claims [1], but as these are often for the worldwide market or endorsed by different organisations, there can be great confusion as to what they mean. It is important to recycle your materials correctly in order to prevent contamination as this can cause them to be disregarded and sent to landfill which, although you were meaning well, is ultimately doing more harm than good. Therefore, here’s a handy list explaining the most common symbols found on packaging.

General Symbols

The Recycle Now symbol – This is the recognised symbol for recycling. Designed to represent the action of recycling by the curved arrow and the feel-good nature of recycling by the heart, this symbol is a call for action [2]. Any packaging displaying this symbol can be recycled but if you are unsure if the item is collected locally then check with your local authority first or use an online postcode locator.

The Mobius Loops – These indicate that the packaging or material can be recycled. It is usually considered to be the international symbol for recycling, however its use is entirely voluntary. A variation of Mobius Loops are those which have a value in the centre of the logo. This shows the percentage of recycled materials used to make the product.

The Green Dot – This symbol is used in many European countries and shows that the producer has made a financial contribution towards its recovery and recycling in the country of origin or sale. This symbol has little relevance in the UK and does not necessarily mean the packaging can be recycled.

New Packaging Symbols

These symbols are beginning to become more widely utilised as they help to inform consumers of how to recycle each separate part of packaging. For example, the symbols on the right show that the sleeve of the packaging is “Widely Recyclable”, therefore 65% of people have access to recycling facilities for it. For the foil, it is suggested that you “Check Locally” as between 15% and 65% of people will have access to recycling facilities for it. The plastic is “ Not Currently Recycled” as less than 15% of people can recycle it.

Plastics – As there are six different polymers used commonly in packaging, there are seven different symbols for plastics (the last for all the other polymers). All are triangles with different numbers inside and letters underneath however they do not mean the packaging can be recycled. Generally, local authorities only recycle PET and HDPE plastics.

Glass – This symbol shows that the glass is recyclable. It is important to separate the different glass colours for recycling in a bottle bank or a kerbside collection.

Metals

Aluminium – This means that the item can be recycled at an aluminium recycling facility.

Steel – This means that the item may be placed in a steel recycling facility.

Electrical Items – This symbol is found on products such as electrical items, electronic items and batteries. These are covered by the WEEE Directive and can all be recycled at you local Household Waste Recycling Centre.

Compostable Items – Although a very new symbol, this is being increasingly used on packaging to show that it can be composted. Therefore you can put it on your compost heap or in compost collection bins if your local authority provides them and they will decompose.