Reference image — official artwork controlledView official mark

Producer-responsibility mark

Green Dot participation mark

The Green Dot indicates participation in a producer-responsibility or packaging recovery system where the mark is licensed. It is not a recycling instruction.

Green DotUsed in multiple European markets under licensing arrangements

Material or subjectProducer-responsibility / scheme participation mark

Applies inUsed in multiple European markets under licensing arrangements

What the mark identifiesFinancial or contractual participation in a packaging recovery system

Last source check15 August 2026

At a glance

What this symbol means

The interlocking circular arrows identify the Green Dot system and trademark. Its legal and contractual meaning depends on the market in which the packaging is supplied.

The page explains the mark but does not reproduce controlled official artwork. The linked owner or authority source has priority for exact appearance and permitted use.

Recognition

How to recognise it

Two interlocking curved arrows form a circle.
The exact official artwork and use conditions are controlled by the relevant trademark and system rules.

Typical applications

Where it commonly appears

consumer packaging sold across European markets
legacy packaging artwork
producer-responsibility communications

Practical decision

How to sort or dispose of it

Ignore the Green Dot as a bin instruction.
Find a material code or local disposal label on the package.
Use the local collection rule for the actual material and format.

Before disposal or return

Follow the material-specific instruction.
Separate components when required.
Do not use colour alone to choose a bin.

Avoid contamination

Common mistakes

Reading the mark as “recyclable”.

Assuming green arrows mean the green-coloured bin.

Confusing it with the Mobius loop.

Important limitation

What it does not mean

It does not mean the package is recyclable, recycled, accepted in a green bin, or made from environmentally preferable material.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is the Green Dot a recycling symbol?

It is a producer-responsibility participation mark, not a direct recyclability or disposal instruction.

Why is it found on packaging in several countries?

Packaging artwork may cover multiple markets and licensing obligations.

What should I use for sorting?

Use the material code and local disposal instruction instead.

Verification

Sources

PRO Europe — The Green Dot trademarkOpen source ↗

Sources checked 15 August 2026