Used corrugated box can be recycled to make the new one, that’s why it is seen as a “green material” in packaging. However, every time cardboard is recycled, the fiber becomes weaker, which limits its recyclability. The great news is a cardboard could be recycled for up to 7 times, according to! So how could we know if a corrugated box could be recycled or not? The answer is very simple: Corrugated Recycle Symbols!
If you see one of 3 following symbols printed on your corrugated box, it means that box could be recycled!
The common trait of three Corrugated Recycle Symbols is the shape of a corrugated box inside a circle with the clockwise arrow, which is the sign of recyclability. However, don’t read the message wrongly: The symbols do not mean that “this box is made from recycled material” (although most of the corrugated box is), in fact, it means “this container could and should be recycled”.
Brands can put Corrugated Recycle Symbols as a marketing strategy to draw audience’s attention about their social responsibility, as long as that corrugated packaging is “readily recyclable” (see below important notice). In fact, these international symbols are encouraged to be printed on the readily recyclable packaging as a guidance for consumers in waste disposal and treatment, unless your country has other specific regulation.
Corrugated Recycle Symbols could also be placed on website or stationery of companies and associations who get involved in promoting the recycling of corrugated packaging. It’s another way for brands to convey your recycling spirit to customers or direct your consumers to an environmental-friendly mindset.
Important notice: Brands and manufacturers can only put Corrugated Recycle Symbols on the “readily recyclable” corrugated package. “Readily recyclable” means that corrugated cardboard is not coated and treated with foreign substances limiting the repulpability of the cardboard like wax, aluminum, or plastics....
