P&G joins How2Recycle Label program

Procter & Gamble has joined GreenBlue’s Sustainable Packaging Coalition’s (SPC) How2Recycle Label program. P&G, headquartered in Cincinnati, will initially carry the label on its Dawn dishwashing liquid packaging.

P&G has been a member of the SPC since 2008. The company joins more than 30 How2Recycle members dedicated to helping consumers recycle their products the right way with clear and simple on-package instructions, according to the SPC.

“We’re excited to welcome P&G to How2Recycle,” says Anne Bedarf, senior manager of SPC. “Seeing the How2Recycle Label on Dawn brand products will help bring much-needed visibility to the importance of recycling plastics like these. While the public generally recognizes the recyclability of plastic bottles, recycling rates remain relatively low,” she adds.

Dawn packaging will carry the Widely Recycled Label, indicating that the majority of U.S. consumers can recycle the PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottle. The How2Recycle Label occasionally requires additional language to encourage proper recycling. In this instance, the label will include a special message, “Empty and Replace Cap,” to ensure that consumers recycle the plastic cap attached to their empty bottle. Recent technology improvements have made it possible to recycle plastic caps with their containers, allowing for better plastic material recovery and assisting in litter prevention, which may come as a change to many consumers, the SPC says.