Recycling symbols are everywhere, from soft drink cans to crisp packets, and they can tell you a lot about how to dispose of your packaging. However, 84% of UK households are unintentionally contaminating their recycling bins, often due to confusion about what can and cannot be recycled. These labels indicate whether the packaging is widely accepted by most local authorities or if it’s better suited for your local recycling centre. It’s important to note that not all councils collect the same materials, so these labels are based on what a majority of councils accept.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the most common recycling symbols you’ll find on products in the UK and what they mean
Recycling
The “Recycle” label indicates that the packaging is accepted by at least 75% of local authorities across the UK. This means it’s likely to be collected, sorted, and processed into new products or packaging in most areas.
Don't recycle
This label is applied to packaging collected by less than 50% of UK local authorities and/or is not able to be sorted, processed and recycled into new packaging or products.
Recycle & Rinse
Rinsing recyclable containers, such as yoghourt pots and soup cans, helps prevent any leftover food or product residue from contaminating other materials, especially when they are mixed with paper recyclables.
Recycle, Rinse & Lid on
Caps and lids that are less than 40mm in diameter are too small to be effectively sorted for recycling, as they can slip through the holes in the sorting screens. If you come across this label, reattaching the lid to the bottle will increase the chances of it being collected and recycled properly.
Recycle With Bags At Large Supermarket & Don’t Recycle At Home
You may find this label on plastic packaging like bread bags, produce bags, crisp packets, and chocolate wrappers. This type of packaging can be recycled at designated recycling points located in certain supermarkets.
Recycle, Bottle Cap on & Don’t Recycle, Remove Sleeve
Certain packaging elements must be separated before disposal. You might see a label like this on items where a sleeve, film, or liner can be easily taken off the main package. For instance, in this example, you can remove the sleeve from a bottle by pulling a perforated strip. While the bottle is recyclable, the sleeve should be discarded in the rubbish.
Understanding Recycling Symbols: Why It Matters
As we’ve explored, recycling symbols serve as vital guides for consumers, helping us navigate the complexities of waste disposal. By recognising these symbols, we can make informed decisions that contribute to effective recycling practices and reduce contamination in the recycling stream.
It’s crucial to remember that recycling guidelines can vary significantly between local authorities, so always check with your local council for specific instructions. Educating ourselves about what can and cannot be recycled not only helps in reducing waste but also supports the broader goal of environmental sustainability.
So, next time you pick up a product, take a moment to examine the recycling symbols. By doing so, you’re playing an essential role in the recycling process – helping to ensure that more materials are reused, leading to a healthier planet for us all.
If you have any questions about recycling or wish to learn more about our commitment to sustainability, feel free to reach out!