Peel. Tear. Soak. Scrub. Grrrrrr. The Challenge of Labels and Recycling

We all know the frustration of trying to remove a label so packaging can be recycled. You try your best, but labels tear or will not come off, and then you are never sure if you should just throw the packaging away or put it in the recycling bin and hope for the best.

Why do the labels matter anyway?

The goal of recycling plastic is to use it for new items. This is often referred to as a “circular economy”; plastic keeps being reused again and again so it does not end up in landfill.

But a successful circular economy depends on easily recyclable items and strong demand for the resulting recycled plastic.

That is where labels can be a challenge. The quality, colour and reusability of the recycled plastic depends on making sure as many contaminants as possible are eliminated during recycling.

Are labels not just removed in the recycling process?

When your recycling arrives at a materials recovery facility, the plastic packages are typically sorted, cleaned, shredded, filtered to remove impurities, and then transformed into pellets that can be used to manufacture new plastic products.

But that is not as easy when there are labels in the mix. Paper labels glued on with sticky adhesive can contaminate the plastic if they are not fully burned away during the recycling process.

Plastic labels made from a different material than the packaging can mingle with the packaging and contaminate the recycling. Even if the label and packaging are the same material, colours from the label can mix with the packaging material.

A little contamination is generally expected. But when there is a lot of contamination, it affects the quality, colour and value of the recycled pellets.

What are the solutions?

Companies are exploring ways to minimise label-related contamination during recycling, including using better adhesives, unifying packaging and label materials, and using innovations like perforated wraps that are easily removed.

But until companies everywhere can make sure the labels on their packaging do not cause recycling issues, it is a good idea to keep considering labels as you recycle.

Here are some easy steps you can take…

1. Check with your local recycler for their recommendations. There are many different recycling processes and types of equipment. By knowing your local guidelines, you can make sure your recyclables work in their system.


2. If your recycler suggests removing labels, do it! Often the easiest way is to soak packaging in warm water to help the label peel off more easily.


3. Better yet, choose products that have perforated sleeves or other labelling that is easier to remove before recycling. Tell your favourite brands that you want easily removable labels.


4. Always rinse out any food or liquids from containers before you put them in your recycling bin, to further reduce contamination during the recycling process.