U.K. recycling label scheme becomes part of RECOUP

RECOUP, or RECycling Of Used Plastics, the U.K.-based plastic packaging recycling organization, has joined the British Retail Consortium as an owner of OPRL (On-Pack Recycling Label), the U.K.’s recycling label scheme.

RECOUP says the development extends ownership across bodies sharing OPRL’s mission to promote greater and more effective recycling of packaging materials and aims to create a strong leadership position for industry on recycling issues.

OPRL and RECOUP, whose members are from across the plastic production, supply, collection and recycling chain, have developed a positive working relationship in recent years. The move to a more formal arrangement signals greater collaboration in future as both organisations seek to maximise recycling of plastics packaging by engaging consumers more effectively.

An increasing number of local authorities are now collecting plastic pots, tubs and trays for recycling, meaning that these are likely to achieve Widely Recycled status as part of the 2016 OPRL Guidelines Review, alongside plastic bottles. Linking to OPRL will also reinforce the continued RECOUP technical work on plastic packaging design, plastic collections and communications activities through the Pledge4Plastics campaign, enabling broader engagement with consumers.

Commenting on the move Stuart Foster, CEO of RECOUP says, “This is a natural and exciting development for both organisations. With a myriad of eco and identification labels available including the misleading SPI codes, I have been a very keen supporter of OPRL as the only viable recycling label option, and the best opportunity to get a clear and consistent recyclability message to the consumer.”

Jane Bevis, chair of OPRL Ltd adds, “We’re delighted that our links with other organisations promoting recycling are being strengthened by this closer relationship with RECOUP. It’s essential that customers hear consistent and clear messages about the importance of recycling in establishing the circular economy and growth of green jobs here in the U.K., as well as saving council tax costs and delivering significant environmental benefits. Business has a vital role to play by coming together to give a strong lead, especially as public spending cuts take further effect.

The OPRL label replaced a range of symbols previously used with three categories: Widely recycled, Check local recycling, and Not currently recycled.