OPRL’s Call-To-Action messages on recycling labels encourage more recycling

OPRL was founded to provide clear, and accurate recycling labels instructions. Sometimes, effective recycling involves multiple steps, so we recently expanded the range of call-to action messages on our recycling tool, as well as providing a range of refill instructions to our catalogue of recycling labels.

Adding simple consumer instructions to labels will allow a wider range of materials to be collected and recycled, which should, in turn, result in higher recycling rates.

Our research shows that uncertainty over whether items can be recycled remains a key barrier to consumer action. When unsure about which bin to use, the majority of people (89%) refer to the packaging for the appropriate recycling instructions. Packaging labels are the main form of recycling information for members of the public, and the instructions they find give them the confidence that they are doing the right thing.

Recycling labels on packaging can also have an impact on purchasing decisions. In 2021, the number of consumers who look for information on recyclability before buying the product increased to 14% up from 6% in 2018.

OPRL’s updated list of instructional messages ensures that your packaging ends up in the right place for reprocessing and that people are assured that they have made the right decision. The new messaging includes:

• Empty – to remind citizens to throw away any empty residue
• Scrunch (for aluminium foil) – to ensure that foil is in a 3D shape that can be recognised and sorted in recycling facilities
• Scrape – to get rid of any lumpy residue (such as bands around cakes)

In addition, messages including ‘recycle at store’, and ‘recycle at collection point’ help to ensure that the packaging material is collected and reprocessed at the correct place.

With the increase in the popularity of refillable packaging options, our labelling tool also provides our members with a range of refill messages. The move towards refillable containers is important as it extends the life of the packaging material.

Our range of refill instructions include:

• Refill at store
• Refill at home
• Return & refill

Concise actions on our recycling labels can help to drive up recycling rates and improve the quality of recyclate, increasing the value of the materials in use. OPRL helps brands and retailers by providing clear messaging to consumers as well as assurance around the accuracy of packaging recycling claims. This goes a long way to safeguarding reputations and building a positive relationship with consumers.

OPRL members get exclusive access to the tools and resources to instantly create and download the correct recycling labels needed for their packaging.

As the Packaging Waste Regulations are updated with the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) for Packaging, the use of  recycling labels on packaging will help ensure that packaging is disposed of correctly which could impact the modulated fees that producers will need to pay.

We Go Beyond The Label

At OPRL, we are more than just a source of recycling labels. We offer a whole range of related services.

To find out more about how we can help you and your business with your recycling labelling needs and the benefits of becoming a member of OPRL, click here.

Existing OPRL members can log into our Members Area to access our intuitive Labelling Tool, read our Labelling Rules, access exclusive webinars and information, and much more.

Get in touch with our team if you would like to discuss how we can support you.