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Essential Guide to Recycling Information on Packaging: How to Label Products for Compliance

Max Ackermann

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Introduction

Recycling is a crucial strategy in addressing the global waste crisis, which is projected to produce 3.4 billion tons of waste by 2050 (Europarl, 2018). Effective recycling practices reduce landfill use and conserve natural resources. Countries with strong recycling regulations, such as Germany and Sweden, showcase significantly higher recycling rates and reduced environmental impacts (Euronews, 2023).

This guide explores the importance of recycling information on product packaging, details regulatory requirements, and offers best practices for businesses to ensure effective recycling and compliance with international standards.

 

Top 10 Questions & Answers about Recycling Information

  • Why is recycling information important on products? Recycling information helps consumers correctly sort and dispose of waste, ensuring materials are recycled efficiently, reducing environmental impact, and promoting sustainability. For instance, recycling one ton of paper can save approximately 17 trees and 26,500 litres of water (Papierindustrie, 2021).
  • Who needs to provide recycling information? Manufacturers, importers, and retailers introducing products to the market, especially in the EU, are required to provide clear recycling information on their packaging. Countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Spain have specific regulations mandating this information.
  • What regulations mandate recycling information? Key regulations include the EU’s Waste Framework Directive and the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, as well as country-specific laws like Germany’s Packaging Act (VerpackG) and France’s EPR system.
  • What are common recycling symbols used on products? Different countries have mandatory and voluntary recycling symbols. In France, the Triman logo indicates recyclability with sorting instructions (QIMA, 2024). Italy requires an alphanumeric code for packaging materials and disposal instructions (Packaging Warehouse, 2024). Spain mandates symbols indicating recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging (COSlaw, 2023). Voluntary symbols include the Green Dot, Mobius Loop for recyclability, and Resin Identification Codes for plastics (Rausch Packaging, 2023). These symbols help consumers properly sort and recycle materials, ensuring compliance and promoting sustainability.
  • How does clear recycling information benefit businesses? Providing clear recycling instructions enhances brand reputation, ensures regulatory compliance, reduces waste management costs, and can increase consumer loyalty. Germany managed to recycle 67.5% of its packaging waste, significantly higher than the EU average of 40.9% (Umweltbundesamt, 2023).
  • What are the challenges in providing recycling information? Challenges include staying updated with varying international regulations, designing labels that are clear and informative, and ensuring that information is accessible to consumers.
  • What best practices should businesses follow? Businesses should use standardized symbols, provide clear and concise disposal instructions, and leverage digital tools like QR codes for detailed recycling information. The new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation mandates harmonized labeling to facilitate sorting (European Commission, 2024).
  • How can technology aid in recycling information? Technologies such as QR codes and mobile apps can offer detailed recycling instructions, helping consumers understand how to dispose of each component of the packaging. This approach aligns with the EU’s push for digital procedures in waste management (European Commission, 2024). Platforms like info.link make it easy to share this information in alignment with EU regulations.
  • What is the impact of recycling on the environment? Proper recycling can save natural resources, reduce energy consumption, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling aluminum, for example, saves up to 95% of the energy required to produce new aluminum from raw materials (Deutsche Recycling, 2023).
  • How can businesses stay compliant with recycling regulations? Businesses should stay informed about current and upcoming regulations, implement robust tracking and reporting systems. Platforms like info.link automatically stay ahead of any regulation and make continuous compliance much easier. The EU’s Waste Framework Directive and country-specific regulations provide clear guidelines for compliance.

 

Why Correct Recycling is Important

Recycling correctly can lead to significant environmental benefits. For instance, recycling one ton of paper can save approximately 17 trees, 26,500 litres of water, and enough energy to power the average home for six months (Papierindustrie, 2021). Moreover, recycling aluminium saves up to 95% of the energy required to produce the same amount from raw materials (Deutsche Recycling, 2023).

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Plastic recycling is another critical area. In 2020, the EU generated 29.1 million tons of plastic waste, but only 32.5% was recycled (Europarl, 2018). Germany, a recycling leader, managed to recycle 67.5% of its packaging waste that year, significantly higher than the EU average of 40.9% (Umweltbundesamt, 2023). However, despite these achievements, plastic waste remains a global challenge, with only 9% of all plastic ever produced being recycled (Wir lieben Recycling, 2023).

 

Empowering Consumers Through Clear Recycling Labels

Recognizing and understanding recycling symbols is vital for consumers to correctly sort waste, ensuring materials are recycled properly and efficiently. As basics, the “Green Dot” symbol, for instance, indicates that the manufacturer has made a financial contribution to recycling systems, while the Mobius loop with a percentage number shows the amount of recycled material in the product (Rausch Packaging, 2023). Both mandatory and voluntary symbols on products guide consumers in supporting the recycling process and complying with national regulations.

You can read more below in “Best Practices for Communicating Recycling Information”.

 

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Consumer Awareness, Behavior, and Expectations Around Recycling Information

Consumer awareness and behavior regarding recycling information play a crucial role in the effectiveness of waste management systems. A significant 78% of consumers in the US examine recycling information on product labels to ensure proper disposal, yet 63% of these individuals still experience confusion about whether an item is recyclable after checking the label (The Recycling Partnership, 2024). This highlights a critical need for clearer and more effective communication of recycling information.

When uncertain about an item’s recyclability, 53% of consumers look at the product label before deciding to trash or recycle it (The Recycling Partnership, 2024). This behavior underscores the importance of providing clear recycling instructions on packaging to guide consumer decisions.

The impact of clear recycling instructions is evident, as 84% of consumers actively seek out written recycling instructions before purchasing packaged products. This trend is even more pronounced in Italy, where 96% of shoppers check a product’s recyclability instructions before buying it, reflecting a strong demand for clear and accessible recycling guidelines (Amcor, 2024).

In Munich, a survey revealed that among various information needs, the top priority for consumers was having more knowledge about correct waste separation, emphasizing the necessity of providing detailed disposal information on packaging (Mielinger & Weinrich, 2024).

The political and environmental importance of mandatory recycling instructions on products cannot be overstated. There are increasing political demands for such measures to improve recycling rates and reduce environmental impact (Entsorgungshinweise, 2024). As consumer expectations evolve, brands must adapt by offering comprehensive and straightforward recycling information to meet these growing demands and support global sustainability efforts.

 

How Different Countries Legislate Recycling

The effectiveness of recycling systems is often bolstered by strict legislation. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, for example, make manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, encouraging the design of more easily recyclable items and reducing overall waste (Deutsche Recycling, 2023). Within the EU, there are varying legislative requirements for recycling among member states. For example, Spain, Italy, and France each have distinct regulations governing waste management and recycling. As of January 2023, Spain has updated its packaging and packaging waste regulations, requiring packaging to be recyclable, compostable, or reusable (Coslaw, 2023). This update aims to enhance recycling efforts and reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste. Italy focuses on comprehensive waste separation systems and landfill taxes to encourage recycling. France has adopted a circular economy roadmap, promoting recycling through extensive public awareness campaigns and regulatory measures (Europarl, 2018). These varying approaches highlight the diversity in recycling policies across Europe.

On an international level, disparities in recycling rates highlight the need for enhanced cooperation and standardisation. For example, while countries like Germany and Austria boast recycling rates of over 60%, other nations struggle to reach 20% (Euronews, 2023). This variation underscores the importance of sharing best practices and implementing robust recycling policies globally.

 

🇪🇺 European Union

Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)

The new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), adopted in 2024, emphasises reducing packaging waste and promoting recycling. Key aspects include:

  • Minimisation by Design: From January 1, 2030, packaging must be designed to minimise its weight and volume (Council of the European Union, 2024).
  • Harmonised Labelling: Packaging must feature EU-wide labels indicating material composition to facilitate sorting (European Commission, 2024).
  • Green Claims: Restricts misleading environmental claims on packaging (Council of the European Union, 2024).
  • Packaging Bans: Bans on single-use plastic packaging in specific contexts, starting January 1, 2030 (Council of the European Union, 2024).

 

EU Packaging Directive (Directive 94/62/EC) & (EU) 2018/852

The EU Packaging Directive (Directive 94/62/EC) was introduced in 1994 to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste and improve the efficiency of resource use. It sets out measures to prevent the production of packaging waste, promote the reuse, recycling, and recovery of packaging, and reduce its final disposal. Recycling codes are a significant component of the EU Packaging Directive, serving to label packaging materials to facilitate their future reuse and recycling. The directive has undergone several amendments to adapt to changing environmental needs and technological advancements, lastly in 2018, resulting in (EU) 2018/852.

 

Waste Framework Directive

The Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC) is the cornerstone of EU waste management law, aiming to protect the environment and human health by preventing harmful effects of waste generation and management.  This directive sets the basic concepts and definitions related to waste management, including recycling, and introduces the waste hierarchy, which prioritises waste prevention, reuse, recycling, and recovery, with disposal as the last resort (European Commission, 2024).

 

Image: Recycling codes according to the EU Packaging Directive 94/62/EC (Elried, 2023)

 

🇩🇪 Germany

Packaging Act (VerpackG) 

The Packaging Act (Verpackungsgesetz, VerpackG), effective since 2019, aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste. Key provisions include:

  • Extended Producer Responsibility: Manufacturers are responsible for the entire lifecycle of their packaging, from production to disposal (Verpackungsregister.org, 2024).
  • Minimum Recyclability Standards: Packaging must meet specific standards for recyclability, encouraging the use of recyclable materials and minimising waste (RecycleMe.eco, 2024).
  • Mandatory Deposits: A deposit system for beverage containers aims to increase recycling rates and reduce litter (Verpackungsregister.org, 2024).

 

Waste Management Act (KrWG) & Circular Economy Act

The German Waste Management Act (Kreislaufwirtschaftsgesetz, KrWG), first enacted in 2012, is the cornerstone of Germany's recycling and waste management policies. It emphasises the principles of the circular economy, prioritising waste prevention, reuse, recycling, and recovery. The Act requires proper sorting and recycling of waste, mandating that waste producers and handlers ensure environmentally sound disposal methods (Umweltbundesamt, 2024).

The Circular Economy Act, an amendment to the KrWG, reinforces the principles of the circular economy by setting higher recycling targets and promoting resource efficiency. It mandates stricter regulations on electronic waste, batteries, and other materials to ensure they are recycled and reused effectively (Earth.org, 2023).

 

🇫🇷 France

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

In France, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system is a crucial component of recycling legislation. EPR requires producers, importers, and retailers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, including post-consumer waste. This involves registering with a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), obtaining a Unique Identification Number (UIN), and reporting product sales. Companies must also contribute to the cost of waste collection and recycling through eco-contributions (EPR Compliance, 2024).

 

Triman and Info-Tri Labels

The Triman logo, mandated by the French Environmental Code and the AGEC Law, indicates that a product is recyclable. Since January 2022, it must be accompanied by the Info-Tri logo, which provides specific sorting instructions for consumers. These instructions help consumers understand how to properly dispose of different packaging components (QIMA, 2024; COSlaw, 2022).

Key Requirements for Triman and Info-Tri Labels:

  • Alphanumeric Code: Packaging must display an alphanumeric code according to Decision 97/129/EC to identify the material.
  • Sorting Instructions: Clear disposal instructions in French must be provided, either on the packaging or via electronic means (QIMA, 2024).

The labelling requirements apply to most household products, including samples and hotel toiletries, but there are some exemptions, such as 

  • Glass beverage packaging.
  • Packaging with a surface area smaller than specified limits can use electronic means for providing sorting instructions (COSlaw, 2022).

Under the AGEC Law, manufacturers and importers must inform consumers about the environmental characteristics of their products, such as the percentage of recycled material, durability, compostability, and the presence of hazardous substances (COSlaw, 2022).

 

Image: Logic Triman Symbol (ecosistant 2022)

Image: Example of a Triman Symbol (ecosistant 2022)

 

🇮🇹 Italy

Waste Management Act

Italy's waste management policies are governed by the Legislative Decree No. 152 of 2006, which has been amended multiple times to align with EU directives. This decree sets out the general principles of waste management, emphasising the need to prevent waste production, promote recycling, and ensure environmentally sound disposal methods. The decree incorporates extended producer responsibility, requiring manufacturers to manage the entire lifecycle of their products, including post-consumer waste (Publications Office of the European Union, 2023).

 

Packaging Act

The Italian Packaging Act, influenced by EU directives, mandates several key provisions:

  • Extended Producer Responsibility: Producers are responsible for the entire lifecycle of their packaging, ensuring that packaging is recyclable and that proper waste management practices are followed (Zentrale Stelle Verpackungsregister, 2024).
  • Minimum Recyclability Standards: Packaging must meet specific standards for recyclability, encouraging the use of materials that are easier to recycle and thus minimising environmental impact (RecycleMe, 2024).
  • Mandatory Labelling: As of January 1, 2023, all packaging must include environmental labelling, indicating the material composition and providing disposal instructions in Italian. This requirement aims to facilitate proper sorting and recycling by consumers (Packaging Warehouse, 2024; Ecosistant, 2024).

 

Circular Economy Act

Italy's Circular Economy policies are reinforced through amendments to existing waste management laws, promoting higher recycling targets and resource efficiency. The Circular Economy Action Plan emphasises reducing waste generation, increasing recycling rates, and ensuring sustainable resource use. Specific measures include stricter regulations on electronic waste, batteries, and other materials to enhance their recyclability and reuse (Publications Office of the European Union, 2023).

 

Mandatory Recycling Symbols on Packaging in Italy

In Italy, the following recycling symbols are mandatory on packaging as per Legislative Decree No. 116/2020:

  • Alphanumeric Code: This code identifies the packaging material according to the European Directive 97/129/EC. It must be displayed on all packaging to facilitate proper sorting and recycling (Packaging Warehouse, 2024; Ecosistant, 2024).
  • Disposal Instructions: Packaging intended for end consumers must include clear instructions in Italian on how to dispose of the packaging correctly. This includes phrases like "Raccolta differenziata. Verifica le disposizioni del tuo Comune" (Separate collection. Check your local municipal guidelines) (Ecosistant, 2024).

 

Image: Logic of mandatory environmental labelling in Italy (ecosistant, 2021)

 

Image: Example of mandatory environmental labelling in Italy (Packaging Warehouse, 2024)

 

🇪🇸 Spain

Royal Decree 1055/2022

Spain's Royal Decree 1055/2022, issued on December 27, 2022, overhauled the country's packaging and packaging waste regulations. The decree aligns Spanish law with the EU's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework and broadens its scope to include industrial and commercial packaging, in addition to household packaging (COSlaw, 2023; KPMG, 2023).

Key Requirements:

  • Registration and Reporting: All producers must register their packaging with the Registro de Productores de Producto and report the quantities of packaging they place on the market. Foreign companies must appoint a Spanish authorized representative and obtain a Spanish tax number (NIF) (Deutsche Recycling, 2023; Ecosistant, 2023).
  • Packaging Design: Packaging must comply with several UNE-EN standards, ensuring it is recyclable, reusable, or compostable. Specific symbols must indicate the packaging's reusable status and instructions for disposal. Claims like “environmentally friendly” are banned to prevent greenwashing (COSlaw, 2023).
  • Deposit Return System: The decree introduces a deposit return system for single-use plastic bottles. Targets for collection have been set, and if unmet, the system will become mandatory within two years (RecycleMe, 2024).
  • Reuse and Recyclate Quotas: The decree sets reuse targets and mandates a minimum proportion of recycled content in packaging, effective from 2025 for specific types of plastics and from 2030 for all packaging types (COSlaw, 2023).
  • Special Schemes for Glass Packaging: Separate recycling schemes are required for glass packaging, adding complexity for businesses handling products in glass containers (Ecosistant, 2023).

Image: Voluntary recycling scheme introduced by ecoembes (ecoembes, 2021)

 

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007

This legislation aims to reduce the amount of packaging waste going to landfill by setting targets for recycling and recovery. It requires businesses to take responsibility for the packaging they produce and ensure it is recycled or recovered properly. Symbols and Notices: Packaging often includes symbols like the Mobius Loop (three chasing arrows), indicating recyclability, and specific recycling instructions such as "Widely Recycled" or "Check Locally." (Wastemission, 2024)

 

Waste Regulations 2011 (England and Wales)

These regulations require businesses to apply the waste hierarchy when dealing with waste. This means prioritising prevention, reuse, recycling, and other recovery methods over disposal. They also mandate proper separation of waste to facilitate recycling. (Recycle More)

 

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme (Expected 2026-2027)

The upcoming EPR scheme will require producers to cover the full costs of managing the packaging waste they generate, including costs related to collection, sorting, and recycling. This aims to incentivise producers to design more sustainable packaging. New labelling requirements under EPR will likely include clear instructions on recyclability, potentially with new symbols or QR codes linking to detailed recycling information. (ecosistant, 2024) There are two options for labels under the upcoming EPR scheme:

  1. Defra-Designed Labels: Defra has acquired a license agreement with WRAP to use the Recycle Now logo in Defra-designed labels. These labels will become mandatory once ‘The Main EPR Regulations’ come into force, expected in mid/late-2024. The available labels will be ‘Recycle’ and ‘Do not recycle’. The specific pictograms have not yet been published. 
  2. On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL): OPRL is a widely recognised labelling scheme that uses the Recycle Now logo. Producers can join this scheme and use its labels in advance of the mandatory EPR requirements. OPRL provides a variety of labels to help consumers understand recycling options, including ‘Recycle’, ‘Don’t recycle’, ‘Recycle with bags at large supermarket’, and ‘Widely recycled at recycling centres’.
  • Recycle: Packaging collected by 75% or more of UK local authorities for recycling is labelled as ‘Recycle’, often using a symbol with a white swoosh on a green background.
  • Not Yet Recycled: If less than 20% of local authorities collect them, they are marked with a ‘Not Yet Recycled’ label. These labels provide an easy reference for consumers to gauge the recyclability of the packaging materials they encounter. (ecosistant, 2024; Wastemission, 2024)

 

Image: On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) (Packaging News, 2020)

 

Examples of Recycling Information on Packaging

Below are recent examples of recycling instructions on consumer products. The variety of styles and approaches indicate that there is no established standard, with brands instead following their own internal guidelines.

Note how some examples clearly name the packaging components to be separated and specify the appropriate bin. Some brands use imagery or icons, while others rely solely on written instructions.

 

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Timeline of Key Recycling Regulations and Initiatives

The following timeline provides a helpful overview of significant recycling regulations and initiatives across Europe, highlighting key milestones from the establishment of the first dual system for recycling consumer packaging in 1990 to the planned full implementation of the EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation by 2030. Each entry outlines the introduction and enforcement of crucial environmental policies aimed at improving recyclability and consumer awareness.

1990

Grüner Punkt: Established the world’s first dual system for the high-quality recycling of consumer packaging. In 1995, the umbrella organisation PRO EUROPE S.P.R.L. was founded to manage this initiative internationally (Grüner Punkt).

2015

France (FR): The Triman logo was introduced through Decree No. 2014-1577. This logo indicates the recyclability of products and their packaging (ATS, 2022).

2017-2020

Nordics: Launch of EUPICO, an environmental product information communication initiative, started in Denmark (2017) and expanded to Sweden (2020) and Norway (2020). Finland and Iceland are expected to follow (Nordics).

January 1, 2022

France (FR): Mandatory application of the Triman logo and sorting instructions (“Info-tri”) directly on products or packaging for household packaging, textiles, shoes, printed paper, furniture, and tyres. This requirement also extended to electrical and electronic devices, batteries, and similar products (ATS, 2022).

January 1, 2023

Italy (IT): Environmental labelling requirement came into force. According to Decree No. 116, packaging must be labeled with the material code per 97/129/EC and disposal instructions in Italian for consumer packaging (Packaging Warehouse, 2024).

April 24, 2024

EU: The Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) was approved by the EU Parliament. Implementation of national legislation is expected between 2025 and 2030, with EU-wide enforcement starting mid-2026 (RIGK, 2024).

June 15, 2023 - March 28, 2025

France (FR): Extension of the Triman logo requirement to specific product categories:

  • Furniture: Since June 15, 2023
  • DIY and Garden Products: By June 6, 2024
  • Toys: By June 6, 2024
  • Decorative Textile Products: By August 25, 2024
  • Consumer Building Materials: By March 28, 2025 (Lizenzero, 2024)

2025

Spain (SP): Royal Decree 1055/2022 mandates that household packaging indicate the appropriate disposal fraction or container by 2025 (Ecoembes, 2024).

March 31, 2026 - March 31, 2027

UK: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) or OPRL Signs:

  • Phase 1: From March 31, 2026, main and shipping packaging (excluding plastic films and flexible materials) must be labeled for recyclability.
  • Phase 2: From March 31, 2027, the requirement will include all types of packaging, anticipating advancements in recycling processes for complex materials (ecosistent, 2024).

2030

EU: Full implementation of the PPWR, requiring all packaging on the EU market to be recyclable by 2030. Additionally, a harmonised EU recycling label is planned to be implemented by this date (Deutsche Recycling, TrackOnline, 2024; EU Policy Lab).

2035

EU: By 2035, most packaging should meet the recyclability requirement, and manufacturers must demonstrate comprehensive recycling capabilities for their packaging (Deutsche Recycling, TrackOnline, 2024).

 

Best Practices for Communicating Recycling Information

Clear and effective recycling information on product packaging is essential for helping consumers properly dispose of different packaging components. To achieve this, consider these best practices, which are based on expert guidance and successful examples from current product recycling instructions. Implementing these practices can enhance both consumer understanding and recycling efficiency.

 

Placement of Recycling Information

Visible and Accessible: Place recycling instructions in a prominent location on the packaging where they are easily noticeable, such as near the opening or on the back panel.

Consistent Location: Keep the placement consistent across all products to make it easier for consumers to locate the information quickly.

 

Clarity in Instructions

Simple Language: Use clear and concise language that can be easily understood by consumers of all ages.

Detailed Steps: Provide step-by-step instructions on how to separate different components of the packaging for recycling.

 

Use of Symbols and Icons

Standardised Symbols: Utilise standardised recycling symbols recognised internationally, such as the Mobius loop and Resin Identification Codes for plastics. Different countries have specific requirements for recycling symbols:

  • France: The Triman logo indicates recyclability with sorting instructions.
  • Italy: An alphanumeric code identifies packaging materials, accompanied by disposal instructions.
  • Spain: Symbols indicate whether packaging is recyclable, reusable, or compostable.

Mandatory and Voluntary Symbols: Ensure compliance with both mandatory symbols required by regulations and voluntary symbols that promote sustainability, like the Green Dot.

Colour Coding: Incorporate colour-coded icons to distinguish between different types of recyclables (e.g., blue for paper, and yellow for plastics), helping consumers sort materials correctly.

 

Text vs. Images

Combining Both: Use a combination of text and images to cater to diverse consumer preferences. Images can quickly convey actions, while text provides detailed instructions.

Visual Clarity: Ensure images are clear and large enough to be easily interpreted.

 

Specifying Recycling Bins

Separate Instructions for Components: Clearly specify which part of the packaging goes into which recycling bin. For example, “Please separate the foil and cup: foil in the yellow bin, cup in the blue bin.”

Avoiding Contamination: Emphasise the importance of separating materials to avoid contamination, which can hinder the recycling process.

 

Advocating Reuse

Reuse Suggestions: Where applicable, suggest ways consumers can reuse parts of the packaging before recycling. For example, “Reuse this jar for storage before recycling.”

Durability Tips: Provide tips on maintaining the packaging for reuse, such as cleaning instructions.

 

Utilising Digital Tools

QR Codes: Include QR codes that link to detailed recycling instructions or videos. Ensure the QR code is scannable and directs to mobile-friendly content.

Apps and Websites: Encourage the use of apps or websites that offer localised recycling information.

 

Compliance with Regulations

Stay Updated: Regularly update recycling instructions to comply with the latest local and international regulations.

Language Requirements: Provide instructions in the local language(s) where the product is sold to ensure comprehension by all consumers.

 

Leveraging digital solutions can significantly simplify and expedite compliance with new recycling regulations. info.link is a leading platform specialising in environmental regulations, offering a comprehensive solution for businesses to stay ahead of these requirements.

 

info.link - sustainability information tool - EU

Image: info.link platform with consumer view, company view, and market-leading features around compliance, privacy, and future readiness

 

Effortless Compliance with Regulatory Standards

info.link allows companies to quickly and easily create and manage legally compliant information pages for each product. These pages provide consumers with accessible environmental information and evidence, ensuring transparency and compliance with new guidelines.

 

Future-Proof QR Codes

The platform facilitates the creation of future-proof QR codes that adhere to the new GS1 Digital Link Standard, poised to replace traditional barcodes. These QR codes offer a seamless way for consumers to access detailed recycling information and instructions, enhancing the consumer experience and supporting proper waste disposal.

To understand the full potential of QR codes in driving sustainability and compliance, we encourage you to download our comprehensive QR code study. This study explores the effectiveness of QR codes in retail, showcasing best practices and innovative uses. It provides valuable insights into how QR codes can improve consumer engagement and streamline recycling processes. Download the study here: State of Green Claims 2024 - QR Codes in Retail.

 

Training and Implementation Support

Finally, info.link also offers training programs to prepare teams for new regulations, ensuring all departments understand and can implement the necessary requirements. This proactive approach helps businesses maintain compliance and adapt to evolving regulatory landscapes efficiently.

 

Looking Ahead

Clear and accurate recycling information on product packaging brings both environmental and business benefits. Environmentally, it helps reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and lower energy consumption. For instance, recycling one ton of paper can save 17 trees and 26,500 litres of water, while recycling aluminium can cut energy use by up to 95%. However, this can only happen if resources are sorted and recycled correctly.

For businesses, providing clear recycling instructions enhances brand reputation, ensures regulatory compliance, and can boost consumer loyalty. Accurate and accessible recycling information helps consumers make informed choices, fostering trust and a positive brand image. Additionally, digital tools like QR codes can offer detailed recycling instructions, further guiding consumers in proper waste disposal.

In conclusion, enhancing recycling information on packaging is a practical and impactful strategy. It supports environmental sustainability and strengthens brand-consumer relationships, making it a worthwhile investment for companies committed to both compliance and corporate responsibility.

 

Sources

 

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EU Green Claims Directive, Guides, QR codes
Max Ackermann
by Max Ackermann
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