Recyclingzeichen

Recyclingzeichen is a term used for symbols on packaging and products that indicate how the item should be handled at the end of its life, what material it is made of, or whether it is suitable for recycling. The most recognizable symbol is the Möbiusband or three chasing arrows, known as the universal recycling symbol. In addition to this, many countries use specific logos or codes to convey recycling or recovery information.

The three chasing arrows symbol indicates that a material is recyclable or is part of a recycling system. However, its presence does not guarantee that the item can be recycled in every local facility; recycling capabilities depend on local collection, sorting, and processing infrastructure. Some symbols also denote recycled content, meaning the product is made partly from recovered material.

Resin Identification Codes are a common set of symbols on plastic items. These codes, a number from 1 to 7 inside a small triangle of arrows, identify the type of plastic (for example PET 1, HDPE 2, PVC 3, LDPE 4, PP 5, PS 6, and other 7). They aid sorting and recycling, but do not guarantee recyclability in all programs. Several plastics with a given code may be accepted in some facilities but not in others.

The Green Dot (Der Grüne Punkt) is another well-known symbol, particularly in Germany. It indicates that the producer contributes financially to a national packaging recovery system, not necessarily that the packaging is recyclable or accepted by every local facility. The presence of the Green Dot does not by itself guarantee end‑of‑life recyclability.

Other labels, such as region-specific or company-specific recycling instructions, can appear on packaging. Consumers are advised to follow local guidelines, as recycling capabilities vary by location and program.