What Are Disposal Logos, and Why Do They Matter for Your Packaging?

Disposal logos, sometimes called disposal labels, are icons or labels on packaging that tell consumers how to dispose of it properly. Lots of people think there are only two ways to dispose of waste: trash it or recycle it. In reality, the process is more complex, with options like product specific collection programs, recycling centers, compost bins, or landfills being just a few of the choices.

According to a 2021 study by The Recycling Partnership, 78% of consumers in the USA look for recycling instructions on a product to ensure they dispose of it properly. Without disposal logos, most consumers are left guessing — and that’s where things go awry. Wish-cycling (throwing non-recyclables into the recycling bin in the hope that they’ll get recycled) is a major problem, causing contamination in recycling streams and ultimately sending good intentions straight to the landfill.

Disposal logos bridge this gap, providing guidance that empowers consumers to make better disposal choices.

Disposal logos might seem like small details, but their impact is enormous. Here’s a few benefits:

Reduces Confusion

Recycling practices vary widely depending on location. What’s recyclable in one city might not be in another. Disposal logos cut through the noise by providing clear instructions in one little image, helping consumers feel confident in their choices.

Builds Brand Loyalty

Today’s consumers expect transparency. When brands include accurate disposal logos, they demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, fostering trust and loyalty. In a sea of vague ecoclaims and greenwashing, a clear disposal logo says, “We’ve done our homework, and we care about the planet.”

Improves Recycling Rates

Contamination is one of the biggest challenges facing recycling facilities. Proper labeling reduces guesswork, keeping non-recyclables out of the bin and improving the quality of recyclable materials. One contaminated load of recyclables can lead to the entire batch being sent to a landfill, highlighting just how critical proper disposal is.

Encourages Supply Chain Accountability

Disposal logos aren’t just for consumers. They hold material suppliers, manufacturers, and brands accountable for their choices, encouraging better practices across the supply chain.

Of course, creating effective disposal logos isn’t without its challenges. Here are some hurdles that brands and packaging providers face:

Inconsistent Recycling Practices

Recycling rules are managed at the local level, meaning what works in Portland might not fly in Pittsburgh. Designing a one-size-fits-all logo is impossible, so flexibility and local guidance are key.

Lack of Regulation

Unlike nutrition labels, disposal logos aren’t federally mandated. Because of this lack of regulation, brands have taken to creating their own logos with vague terminology or misused icons that are difficult for consumers to follow. California's SB-343 legislation that addresses environmental advertising and symbols on packaging is paving the way, but there's still a long way to go.

Icon Overload

Over the years, packaging has become cluttered with sustainability symbols. While well-intentioned, these icons often confuse consumers. Of those consumers who regularly check product labels for disposal information, 63% reported confusion about whether an item is recyclable after looking at the product label (Recycling Partnership, 2023). Simplifying and standardizing logos is crucial to improving their effectiveness.

Preconceived Notions About Logos

The well-known “chasing arrows” recycling symbol is a classic example. Many people assume that anything bearing the symbol is recyclable, which isn’t always true. Combating these misconceptions while still using familiar icons is a tricky balance.

At Roastar, we’re committed to making disposal logos accessible and effective for every brand we work with. Here’s how we help:

Offering Custom Disposal Logos

We provide a range of disposal logos tailored to the packaging we produce. Whether the bag is recyclable, compostable, or destined for the trash, our logos make it clear to consumers how to dispose of the packaging.

Partnering with Customers

Not sure how to label your packaging? We’ve got you covered. Our team works with customers (and sometimes local recyclers or composters) to ensure that disposal instructions are accurate and effective. In some cases, we even collaborate with local composters to create language that’s accepted in their facilities.

Supporting Small Businesses

We’re proud members of How2Recycle, a third-party organization that standardizes recycling labels. However, we know not every small business can afford the membership fee. That’s why we created our own set of disposal logos, giving all our customers access to clear, credible labeling.

Providing Resources

Our Sustainability Guide is packed with information to help brands navigate the complexities of disposal labeling. From material specs to local recycling tips, it’s a one-stop shop for sustainable packaging advice. If you’ve never given it a look, we highly recommend it!

Want to make your disposal logos as impactful as possible? Here are some best practices:

Know Your Materials

Before slapping a compostable logo on your bag, make sure it’s actually compostable. For example, there’s a common misconception about kraft packaging being universally compostable or recyclable because it looks like paper. However, multilayer, flexible packaging materials are more complex. Our brown kraft compostable bags are designed to be industrially composted, while our brown kraft laminate material is neither recyclable or compostable.

The right disposal logo will help clear up any confusion. We’ve even included a QR code on our compostable logos to help direct consumers to the nearest facility.

Avoid Greenwashing

Well-intentioned but misleading claims do more harm than good. Be honest about what your packaging can and can’t do. If you have any questions about your package's components or benefits, please contact your customer service representative. They have additional resources that can help you.

Consult the Experts

The Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides provide clear guidelines for making environmental claims. Familiarize yourself with these standards to avoid potential pitfalls.

Think Locally

If you’ve been keeping up with our sustainability content, you know we’re big fans of this one. Recycling and waste practices differ by region. How a product is sorted at each collection location can significantly impact the disposal needs of the package. Whenever possible, include local guidance to help consumers dispose of your packaging properly.

Go Beyond the Basics

Adding more instructions like “Crush before recycling” for paper tubes or “Drop off at store collection point” for plastic bags can greatly improve disposal outcomes — which is why we included this information in our disposal logos.

Disposal logos might seem like small details, but they’re part of a much larger movement toward sustainability. They educate consumers, improve recycling rates, and hold brands accountable, creating ripple effects that benefit the entire planet. While not every material can be recycled or composted, clear disposal instructions ensure that packaging ends up in the right place, minimizing environmental impact.

At Roastar, we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your packaging and disposal logos. Together, we can work toward a future where packaging choices are smarter, clearer, and better for the environment. Ready to take the next step? Check out our Sustainability page for further learning, or get a quote to start your sustainable packaging journey.