Resource Center
Recycling Numbers & Symbols Explained
The chasing arrows “recycling” symbol doesn’t mean an item is recyclable. It indicates what it’s made of. Decode recycling symbols and numbers in this blog.Byline: BTB Editor
December 3, 2024 / Time to read: 5 minSome people don’t recycle because they don’t understand it. In fact, according to the
Do you also think
The Meaning of the Recycling Symbol
At some point at home or at work, you’ve probably scanned an empty container or packaging for the chasing arrows symbol before sorting it into a recycling bin. These triangular arrows, often referred to as the "recycling symbol" or Mobius loop, can be found on products we use every day.
The chasing arrows symbol does NOT always mean an item is accepted in curbside recycling. Some items with this symbol may need special handling, for example at a dedicated recycling drop-off center.
Here’s what the symbol can mean:
- Blank center: An item MAY be recycled. Check with your local recycling center to see where and how to recycle it.
- Percentage in the center: How much of that item was made from recycled material.
- Number in the center: The type of plastic an item is made from.
Labels like these can confuse people about what items they can recycle, resulting in tons of non-recyclable products ending up in recycling carts each year.
SB 343 Clarifies the Use of the Recycling Symbol
Building a cleaner and more sustainable future requires meaningful solutions. That’s why we supported California’s
Thanks to SB 343, beginning in 2024, the chasing arrows symbol indicates materials that can be recycled into new products and packaging, clearing up confusion at the recycling bin and reducing recycling contamination.
Decoding Recycling Symbols
These common recycling numbers and symbols, found on various products and packaging, indicate important information about recyclability, material composition, and disposal methods. Here’s what each symbol means:
There are seven different
Glass is made from sand and limestone, so it’s
Note: Some items containing glass — like cookware, drinkware, mirrors or windows — are manufactured differently and aren’t accepted for curbside recycling. For
Clean, uncoated
Many
How to Recover and Recycle Key Materials
You can help preserve natural resources by recovering and recycling key materials, which diverts these items from landfills and supports the circular economy. Here’s how to properly recycle:
Unbagged
Sorters at the recycling facility can’t filter through what’s in a bag, so
Empty, Clean and Dry
Dirty or wet recyclables can contaminate the entire bin. Remember that only
Know What To Throw
Flattened cardboard, paper,
Support Sustainable Recycling
You can become a better recycler by being aware of these symbols and their meaning. Make sure you understand the basics and visit
Want to learn more about sustainable recycling? Our Polymer Centers use an integrated process to manage the plastics stream from curbside collection to the production and delivery of high-quality recycled content for consumer packaging. See how we’re increasing the
