UK Packaging Waste Signage Requirements by 2027 Revoked
The finalized waste sorting signage regulations supposed to be coming into effect on April 1, 2027, have been revoked. These requirements will remain optional — with no risks of financial penalties.
Key Details of the Revoked Packaging Waste Signage Requirements
Under the new regulations, brands were supposed to include clear and consistent signage on their packaging to guide consumers on proper waste sorting and recycling practices. By standardizing waste disposal instructions, the goal was to create a more efficient system that reduces contamination in recycling streams and ensures materials are reused effectively.
Optional symbols to be used by OPRL (On-Pack Recycling Label) members
While the requirement for recycling labels on household packaging will not be enforced from 1 April 2027 as previously announced, it is important for brands to continue to help consumers recycle.
1. Clear Signage Instructions
- All packaging can display a “Recycle” or “Do Not Recycle” label, as determined by accurate assessments of recyclability.
- For packaging with multiple components, each separable part (up to four) should feature its own instructions, ensuring that consumers handle each item appropriately.
- When a component’s recycling requires manual action (such as removing a film or lid), a separate and specific instruction is necessary.
- Including a brief explanatory note or call to action helps ensure consumers follow required disposal steps, supporting your compliance record.
2. Design and Color Specifications
- Recyclable Packaging: Green “Recycle” boxes (Pantone 376C or C50 M0 Y100 K0). Black-and-white permitted where color isn’t feasible.
- Non-Recyclable Packaging: Solid black for “Do Not Recycle” and “Check Home Collections” boxes (C0 M0 Y0 K100).
- Font: Minimum size is 6 points, to ensure displayed information is clear and legible across packaging sizes.
3. About the "Swoosh" Symbol
- Businesses in the UK are encouraged to voluntarily label packaging to assist consumers in recycling it properly. The OPRL "Swoosh" symbol is exclusively accessible to OPRL members.
Source: Recycle Now: Recycle Icon | WRAP - The Waste and Resources Action Programme
Important Defra update on mandatory recycling labelling - OPRL
4. Specific Guidance for Multi-Part Packaging
Brands are accountable for verifying the recyclability of each component and for using correct labels. Labeling must be aligned with standards as defined by recognized Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) for accuracy.
Why Preparing is Crucial
The time to act is now. Brands are encouraged to make these changes anyway. Ensuring that packaging designs align with the guidelines requires collaboration between packaging suppliers, designers, and legal teams. Ensuring actual packaging properties compliance and changing if needed, adhering to signage specifications, and verifying recyclability status is a time-consuming process.
Preparation is essential to navigate these upcoming changes with confidence. Here’s how you can take proactive steps today:
/ Audit Your Current Packaging
Conduct a thorough review of your existing packaging. Identify areas for improvement, such as recyclability, material sourcing, and overall environmental impact.
/ Collaborate with Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs)
Partnering with PROs will help you better understand your options and gain expert insights. These organizations can guide you in implementing systems that align with different labeling recommendations for waste labeling.
/ Leverage a Compliance-Focused Packaging Solution
Choosing the right partner and technology can simplify the complexity of EPR compliance. Trimco Group’s ProductDNA® Packaging Manager is a purpose-built solution for fashion brands seeking end-to-end support with EPR and regulatory labeling. Key features include:
- Regulatory Solutions: Access the latest EPR requirements across different regions, with expert analysis and guidance tailored to your packaging needs.
- EPR Compliance Made Simple: Get advisory support on correct labeling, pictograms, disposal information, and multi-market compliance for both design and documentation.
- Data Integration & Reporting: Streamline data collection from all suppliers into a central database, track materials and certifications, and generate regulatory-ready textile and packaging consumption reports required by EPR schemes.
Learn more about Packaging Manager.
Sources:
Understanding recycling symbols | Recycle Now
Changes to Recycling Label Rules from 2026 to Help Consumers - Labelservice
Recycle Now: Recycle Icon | WRAP - The Waste and Resources Action Programme
Important Defra update on mandatory recycling labelling - OPRL