Happy woman scanning QR code on a product while shopping in supermarket.

Who We Are

Recycling can be a challenge

How2Recycle wants to help. Our label is based on nationally harmonized data and  provides consistent and transparent on-package disposal instructions for consumers. Behind every label is a custom recyclability assessment.

woman hand picking up trash bottle for cleaning at park

Our Mission

Simplifying the recycling process

We’re on a mission to get more materials in the recycling bin by taking the guesswork out of recycling.

US vs Canada

  • The Store Drop-off program is only available in the US
  • Our labeling in the US is based on the Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides.

US vs Canada

  • Film packages that receive the Store Drop-off label in the US are Widely Recyclable in Canada. You can recycle these film packages in your curbside or drop-off bins. Check your local municipality for more information about what is accepted in your area.
  • Our labeling in Canada is based on Competition Bureau Canada guidance.
US vs Canada

Stay up to date on how recycling policies differ from the United States of America vs Canada.

  • The Store Drop-off program is only available in the US
  • Our labeling in the US is based on the Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides.
  • Film packages that receive the Store Drop-off label in the US are Widely Recyclable in Canada. You can recycle these film packages in your curbside or drop-off bins. Check your local municipality for more information about what is accepted in your area.
  • Our labeling in Canada is based on Competition Bureau Canada guidance.

  1. 2008
  2. 2016
  3. 2017
  4. 2018
  5. 2020
  6. 2021
  7. 2023
  8. 2024
  9. 2026

  1. 2008: The Beginning

    How2Recycle began in 2008 as a project of the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. The How2Recycle Label program finished its soft launch in early 2012 with 12 pilot companies.

  2. 2016: Educating Consumers

    In 2016, How2Recycle released its first consumer education video on Mother Nature Network.

  3. 2017: Awarded

    In 2017, How2Recycle was awarded a Dupont Packaging Silver Award for packaging innovation.

  4. 2018: Topping the Ranks

    In 2018: How2Recycle was awarded Finalist in MIT Climate CoLab’s contest about Shifting Attitudes and Behaviors to Address Climate Change.

    In 2018: How2Recycle launched the consumer education campaign Look for the Label on a billboard in Times Square.

  5. 2020: 225+ Brands Join the Movement

    In 2020: How2Recycle had grown to over 225 brand and retailer members and issued more than 100,000 design recommendations to members to make their packaging more recyclable.

  6. 2021: Surpassing 400+ Members and Growing!

    How2Recycle surpasses 400 members in 2021, and continues rapid growth and expanded influence.

  7. 2023: Reached 525 Brand and Retailer Members and 200+ Manufacturer Members

    How2Recycle membership has grown to over 525 brand and retailer members and over 200 packaging and material manufacturer members.

  8. How2Recycle Forward

    As the recycling landscape changes, the How2Recycle Forward campaign will help members meet the moment. The campaign comprises four key initiatives: refreshing our label design, enhancing our data ecosystem, optimizing our operations, and empowering consumers to make informed disposal decisions.

  9. How2Recycle Pro

    As policies and consumer expectations evolved, we’re proud to build on the recognition of  the How2Recycle Legacy Labels by rolling out our new How2Recycle Pro Labels. The How2Recycle Pro Label design is one backed by extensive consumer research and designed to enhance clarity, accessibility, and compliance.

Definition of Recyclability

US & Canada Laws
Collection
Sortation
Reprocessing
End Markets

US & Canada Laws

The How2Recycle label evolves with legislation in the US and Canada, including the Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides and Competition Bureau Canada guidance. We will continue to adapt to changing US State laws and Canadian regulations, including from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Collection

We regularly reference data to assess the accessibility consumers have to curbside or drop-off recycling programs.

Sortation

We consider how successfully packages will get sorted in the Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) based on physical characteristics.

Reprocessing

We consult with experts including the Association of Plastics Recyclers, Glass Packaging Institute, The Aluminum Association, Steel Recycling Institute, and Carton Council to determine how each package will be able to be recycled into new items.

End Markets

How2Recycle looks at demand, scale, value, and time to determine how valuable each material will be once reprocessed.