Reference image — official artwork controlledView official mark

Regional on-pack recycling label

UK On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL)

OPRL labels tell UK consumers whether a packaging component should be recycled, not recycled or taken through a specialist route.

OPRLUnited Kingdom

Material or subjectUK packaging recyclability and disposal instruction

Applies inUnited Kingdom

What the mark identifiesOn-pack label using Recycle, Do Not Recycle and specialist instructions

Last source check15 August 2026

At a glance

What this symbol means

OPRL labels tell UK consumers whether a packaging component should be recycled, not recycled or taken through a specialist route.

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 clear wording such as Recycle or Do Not Recycle with the component name.
Additional instructions can cover caps, films, rinsing or store collection.

Typical applications

Where it commonly appears

UK grocery and retail packaging
multi-component packs
specialist film and refill instructions

Practical decision

How to sort or dispose of it

Follow the instruction for each component.
Use specialist or store routes when stated.
Do not replace the label with a resin-code assumption.

Before disposal or return

Carry out printed actions such as rinse, empty, cap on or remove sleeve.
Separate components only as instructed.
Keep non-recyclable components out of the recycling stream.

Avoid contamination

Common mistakes

Ignoring the component name.

Assuming every plastic film uses the same route.

Confusing Recycle with a recycled-content claim.

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

OPRL — How the UK on-pack recycling label scheme worksOpen source ↗

Sources checked 15 August 2026