Innotex Group 
Manufacturing packaging from existing (recycled content) or renewable (like plants) resources and designing packaging for reuse, composting or recycling at the end of life garner the most attention to move packaging in a more sustainable direction. Easy to read and informative labeling lacks the limelight but is likely the best way to help keep material in the economy, recycling streams clean and avoid the landfill
Many major brands are increasingly turning to How2Recycle labels to better define for the end user what to do with the package once it has exhausted its use. The simple and clear labeling has led to rapid adoption by brands and manufacturers.
– 525 member brands (45% growth since 2021)
– 215 manufacturer and converter members (115% growth since 2021)
– 209,400 SKU’s using the How2Recycle label. (94% growth since 2021)
– 11,000 custom and unique How2Recycle labels (64% increase since 2021)
The statistics come from the day long How2Recycle virtual conference attended 11/2/23. The 11,000 unique labels speak to how much diversity exists in the packaging space. A few examples of labels are shown here.
The labeling system is evolving. Regulations are constantly changing, and new data becomes available to force changes to existing labels and help create new ones. The How2Recycle organization does not write the law, it complies with the law to give clear direction to the end user.
If your organization has consumer facing products, consider offering How2Recycle labels as an option to offer. The labels show commitment and leadership in the sustainability space as well as provide customers information they are likely seeking.
How to get involved?
To have access to the labeling system, organizations must first become a member. Members then send their packages to How2Recycle for evaluation. Based on that evaluation, How2Recycle provides the appropriate label for brands to use to print on their packages. Visit https://how2recycle.info/join for more details.
Clearview Packaging is part of the Summit Films platform of packaging manufacturers. Reach out to us at sale@greenlinepackaging.com. We can guide you through the process.
Written by Trent Romer