60% of consumers are confused about what and how to recycle.
Confusion about what and how to recycle causes too many household recyclables – from cereal boxes to yogurt tubs – to end up in landfill. To help address this problem, state-level policy is establishing more transparent packaging labels and recyclability claims requirements, setting the stage for brands to play a critical role in the solution.
In this changing landscape, there are a variety of packaging standards; but what if there was an easy-to-use tool for both brands and consumers?
A data-driven solution to navigate the complex recycling system
Recycle Check is a new platform from The Recycling Partnership that offers an interactive package-specific solution providing localized recycling information to consumers across the U.S. With Recycle Check, consumers can scan a QR code or click a link to get real-time package-specific recycling information in as little as 10 seconds.
This tool simplifies the way product packages provide local recyclability information, utilizing The Partnership’s National Recycling Database, a state-of-the-art resource that centralizes recycling information from more than 9,000 U.S. communities covering 97% of the U.S. population.
*A brand’s application must demonstrate that the package passes design requirements for effective recycling.
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Recycle Check FAQs
What kinds of items are eligible for Recycle Check?
Recycle Check is for packaging that is collected for curbside recycling in the U.S., and passes design requirements for effective recycling. Packaging with multiple components is also eligible.
How much does Recycle Check cost?
There is a set-up fee for each package type, along with an annual subscription fee for each brand using Recycle Check.
Contact recyclecheck@recyclingpartnership.org for more information.
Will consumers really use QR codes?
More than 85% of Americans now own a smartphone and 75% say they plan on using QR codes. Going further, The Partnership’s consumer research validated that people find QR codes easy to use, with 82% of respondents sharing they would use their smartphone to determine if a package is locally accepted for recycling.
What is the data that informs Recycle Check?
Recycle Check leverages The Partnership’s National Recycling Database, a state-of-the-art resource that centralizes recycling access information from more than 9,000 U.S. communities covering 97% of the U.S. population, aggregating the data in one place so consumers don’t have to search aimlessly for an answer. The database captures local recycling changes as they occur to provide real-time information.
How do I get a QR Code and link for my package?
Sign up to receive the latest updates, apply to be an early adopter, or contact recyclecheck@recyclingpartnership.org for more information.
How does Recycle Check interact with other label systems?
The Recycling Partnership is currently in discussions with other organizations to explore collaboration opportunities.
Where can Recycle Check be used?
Recycle Check can be used on a physical packaging label as a QR code or on a product web page as a link.