How2Recycle Updates Guidelines with Key Changes to Packaging Recyclability
How2Recycle®, the leading standardized recycling labeling system in North America, has released its semi-annual Guidelines for Use, bringing notable updates to recyclability designations for two key packaging formats. These changes reflect the latest data on collection, sorting, and end-market capabilities, ensuring labels accurately represent current recycling realities.
Key Recyclability Changes
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Composite Canisters with Steel Bottoms Get an Upgrade
- Previously labeled “Not Yet Recyclable”, these canisters have now been upgraded to “Check Locally” in the U.S.
- This change is based on improved collection and processing capabilities. The format remains “Check Locally” in Canada.
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Aerosol Cans Downgraded in the U.S.
- Aluminum and steel aerosol cans have moved from “Widely Recyclable” to “Check Locally” due to reduced acceptance by U.S. recycling programs.
- However, they remain “Widely Recyclable” in Canada.
Karen Hagerman, Director of How2Recycle, emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing clarity for businesses and consumers alike:
“We commend our members for their dedication to sustainable packaging. While some changes—like the aerosol can downgrade—may feel like a setback, they reflect the current realities of recycling systems. This transparency helps drive future infrastructure improvements.”
These updates take effect January 31, 2025, with full implementation details available to How2Recycle members via their online portals.
Four Packaging Formats Under Review for Potential Downgrades
To help brands plan ahead, How2Recycle has also flagged four packaging formats currently under review, signaling potential recyclability downgrades:
- Polypropylene (PP) Single-Use Beverage Pods (e.g., coffee pods) – Could be downgraded from “Check Locally” to “Not Yet Recyclable” in the U.S.
- Certain Flexible PE Formats in Canada – Stand-up pouches, metallized films, and wrappers may lose their “Widely Recyclable” status.
- HDPE Trays & Thermoforms in the U.S. – May be downgraded from “Widely Recyclable” to “Check Locally.”
- Bulky Rigid Plastics (e.g., 3-gallon buckets) – Could move from “Check Locally” to “Not Yet Recyclable” in the U.S.
These reviews are driven by updated recycling access data and collection trends. How2Recycle will finalize these potential downgrades in the July 2025 update.
No Changes for Previously Reviewed Formats
After further analysis, some materials previously under review will maintain their current recyclability designations:
- No upgrade for HDPE & PP squeeze tubes (still “Not Yet Recyclable” in the U.S.).
- No upgrade for PP and PET beverage cups (still “Check Locally” in the U.S.).
- Aseptic & gable-top cartons remain “Widely Recyclable” in the U.S.
These adjustments underscore How2Recycle’s commitment to ensuring its labels align with real-world recycling capabilities, offering brands and consumers the most accurate, transparent guidance possible.
