New Labels Aid Recycling

A new recycling labeling system called How2Recycle has been completed by the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC). The labeling system communicates recyclability across all material types, gives explicit directions to consumers, and specifies when a package component is not recyclable.

Research completed prior to and during the soft launch of the project has confirmed that the label is understood by consumers, leads consumers to action, elicits positive impressions of products and companies and meets Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requirements, SPC says. In addition, SPC says the label is a valuable tool for companies wishing to understand the specific recyclability of their packaging.

Kellogg Co has already signed on to take advantage of the How2Recycle label, along with Ampac, Best Buy, Clorox, Costco Wholesale, Esteé Lauder Cos., Aveda, General Mills, Microsoft, Minute Maid, Sealed Air, Seventh Generation and REI. The public can expect to see the label on a variety of products beginning in April of 2013. Full implementation of the label is underway, and companies interested in participating are encouraged to contact GreenBlue, the SPC's parent organization. The SPC says its goal is for the label to appear on the majority of consumer product packaging by 2016.

We're excited about the long-term impact of this product. With the revision of the FTC’s Green Guides, attention again has turned to accurate and transparent recyclability messaging, we hope products like the How2Recycle label become the industry standard. It's a great way to encourage people to recycle their products properly, and the more we recycle, the better our world is.