Getting the on-pack recycling label right matters for both compliance and for consumers actually recycling your packaging correctly. This checker maps a material to its recyclability tier and the exact UK OPRL and US How2Recycle label text, so designers and brand teams can apply the correct mark to every component.
How it works
The UK OPRL scheme uses a largely binary rule. A component is labelled Recycle if at least 75% of UK local authorities collect that material kerbside, and Don’t Recycle otherwise. Certain streams carry special labels, such as Recycle with bags at large supermarket for plastic films, or Recycle - Rinse where food residue must be removed first.
The US How2Recycle scheme uses four tiers instead: Widely Recycled, Check Locally, Store Drop-Off, and Not Yet Recycled. The tool returns both labels plus a plain-language recyclability tier and any required handling note.
Example
A rigid polypropylene tub is now collected by most UK authorities, so OPRL labels
it Recycle - Rinse and How2Recycle labels it Widely Recycled, with a note to
rinse food residue before recycling. A polystyrene tray, by contrast, returns
Don't Recycle and Not Yet Recycled.
Tips and notes
Always label each distinct component of a multi-part pack separately — a recyclable bottle with a non-recyclable sleeve needs both marks. Recyclability tiers shift as collection infrastructure improves, so revisit labels when scheme guidance updates.