Common on-pack material-code formGlass packaging code
Packaging material code GL 70 — colourless glass
GL 70 identifies colourless packaging glass.
GL 70European packaging material identification system
At a glance
What this symbol means
GL 70 identifies colourless packaging glass.
Read the number and abbreviation as the material identifier. The surrounding triangle can vary between labels and does not itself prove local recyclability.
Recognition
How to recognise it
- Look for GL 70 moulded into the base or printed on the label.
- The code applies to packaging glass, not every clear glass object.
Typical applications
Where it commonly appears
- clear bottles and jars
- clear cosmetic containers
- colourless pharmaceutical packaging
Practical decision
How to sort or dispose of it
- Use the local colourless-glass or mixed-glass container as instructed.
- Keep drinking glasses, ceramics, mirrors and heat-resistant cookware out of bottle-bank glass unless accepted.
- Use deposit return for eligible refillable or deposit-marked bottles.
Before disposal or return
- Empty the container.
- Remove closures when local instructions require it.
- Do not place full or hazardous-content containers in a public bottle bank.
Avoid contamination
Common mistakes
Putting window glass or cookware into bottle-bank glass.
Sorting by apparent colour without checking coatings or decoration.
Breaking a deposit bottle before return.
Important limitation
What it does not mean
The code identifies the main material of the coded component. It does not prove local recyclability, cleanliness, recycled content or acceptance of a complete multi-component package.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Is all clear glass GL 70?
No. The code is for packaging glass; non-packaging glass can have a different composition and route.
Do labels need to be removed?
Usually not, but follow local instructions.
What about clear deposit bottles?
Return them through the deposit system when eligible rather than using ordinary glass collection.
Verification
Sources
EU Decision 97/129/EC — Packaging material identification systemOpen source ↗Regulation (EU) 2025/40 — Packaging and packaging wasteOpen source ↗
Sources checked 15 August 2026
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