Recycling & Packaging Symbols

Universal Recycling Symbol (U+2672)

The general recycling mark made of three chasing arrows (Möbius loop). Indicates recyclable material without specifying a particular material.

Black Recycling Symbol (U+267B)

Filled (black) variant of the universal recycling symbol. Same meaning, higher-contrast presentation.

Möbius Loop

The classic recycling symbol. Stands for "recyclable". Combined with a material number (e.g. 20 PAP), the material is specified more precisely.

Möbius Loop with Percentage

Möbius loop with a percentage figure — indicates the proportion of recycled material (recyclate content) in the packaging.

Corrugated Cardboard Recycling Symbol

Indicates recyclable corrugated cardboard. Frequently found on shipping and transport boxes.

NAPM Recycled

Mark for paper made from 100% recovered paper in accordance with the British NAPM standard.

Glass Recycling Symbol

Indicates recyclable waste glass — belongs in the glass container (separated by colour).

Aluminium Recycling Symbol

Indicates recyclable aluminium (e.g. cans, trays, lids).

Steel Recycling Symbol

Indicates recyclable steel or tinplate (e.g. food cans).

The Green Dot

licence required

Mark of participation in the dual disposal system. It does NOT mean "recyclable", but that licence fees have been paid for the packaging.

Licence required. Use only with a valid licence from Der Grüne Punkt – Duales System Deutschland GmbH.

RESY Symbol

licence required

Indicates recyclable paper and cardboard transport packaging whose disposal is organised through the RESY system.

Licence required. Use only with a valid licence from RESY GmbH.

Sprout (compostable)

licence required

Mark for industrially compostable packaging in accordance with EN 13432. Not intended for home composting.

Licence required. Use only with a valid licence from European Bioplastics / DIN CERTCO (Seedling-Logo).

OK Compost (industrial)

licence required

Certification for industrial compostability in accordance with EN 13432 (TÜV AUSTRIA).

Licence required. Use only with a valid licence from TÜV AUSTRIA.

OK Compost HOME

licence required

Certification for home compostability (TÜV AUSTRIA) — also degradable in garden compost.

Licence required. Use only with a valid licence from TÜV AUSTRIA.

Tidyman

An appeal to consumers to dispose of waste properly rather than discarding it carelessly (anti-litter). No legal obligation, but widely used.

Crossed-out Wheelie Bin (WEEE)

mandatory labelling

Mandatory labelling for electrical and electronic equipment: does NOT belong in household waste, but in separate collection.