Reference image — official artwork controlledView official mark

Regional on-pack recycling label

How2Recycle label

How2Recycle combines a packaging component name, material, preparation instruction and a designation such as Widely Recyclable, Check Locally, Store Drop-off or Not Yet Recyclable.

How2RecycleUnited States and Canadadesignations can differ by country

Material or subjectNorth American component-level packaging disposal instruction

Applies inUnited States and Canada; designations can differ by country

What the mark identifiesStandardised on-pack instruction with material, preparation and recyclability designation

Last source check15 August 2026

At a glance

What this symbol means

How2Recycle combines a packaging component name, material, preparation instruction and a designation such as Widely Recyclable, Check Locally, Store Drop-off or Not Yet Recyclable.

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

Look for a rectangular component label with a prominent recyclability designation.
Read the geographic qualifier because U.S. and Canadian instructions can differ.

Typical applications

Where it commonly appears

North American consumer packaging
multi-component food and household packs
store-drop-off film guidance

Practical decision

How to sort or dispose of it

Follow the designation and special instruction for that component.
Use Store Drop-off only for accepted films at participating U.S. locations.
Use Check Locally to confirm collection access.

Before disposal or return

Follow printed actions such as empty and replace cap.
Keep film clean and dry for store drop-off.
Separate components when the label shows them separately.

Avoid contamination

Common mistakes

Assuming Store Drop-off applies outside the U.S.

Using a label from one component for another.

Putting Not Yet Recyclable packaging into recycling.

Important limitation

What it does not mean

The label applies within its stated market and component scope. It is not a universal instruction for other countries or unlabelled components.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Does this label work in every country?

No. Use it in the market named by the label and check local rules elsewhere.

What if the pack has several components?

Follow the instruction assigned to each component.

Is the WasteSpot image the official artwork?

No. It is a recognition aid; use the official source for exact artwork.

Verification

Sources

How2Recycle — How the North American label worksOpen source ↗

Sources checked 15 August 2026