GreenBlue's Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) is now offering funding for use of the How2Recycle Label, an on-package recycling label aimed at providing clear and consistent recycling instructions to consumers. The funding is supported by StopWaste and the Flexible Film Recycling Group (FFRG) of the American Chemistry Council (ACC). [Click here for PlasticsToday's coverage of the How2Recycle Label]. 

StopWaste, a public agency responsible for reducing waste in Alameda County, CA, is offering $20,000 in new funding for companies headquartered in Alameda County interested in joining the program. Geared at brand owners, packaging manufacturers, retailers, and others who can influence product packaging design, StopWaste's funding will cover How2Recycle license costs for one year, up to $4,000 per applicant. By facilitating the adoption of the label, StopWaste hopes to increase the recycling of product packaging, and to support the development of packaging designed for recyclability.

"About a third of what Alameda County residents throw away as garbage is packaging from consumer products, often made up of multiple materials that could be recycled if sorted properly. The How2Recycle label ensures recycling instructions are as clear and locally relevant as they can be, increasing the chance that those materials will be recycled," said Justin Lehrer, senior program manager at StopWaste, who oversees the funding program. "As a result of better sorting and recycling, we see improved quality of recycled material and increased availability for use in new packaging. Beyond that, we hope that by incentivizing the use of the label we can help support the development of packaging that's designed for recyclability."

The American Chemistry Council has offered sponsorships for use of the Label since 2013, and has agreed to continue its support with $15,000 in additional funding. ACC's funding will be used to fully or partially offset the license fee for qualifying companies wishing to use the Store Drop-off Label. The Store Drop-off Label can be used on LDPE or HDPE bags, films, and wraps, including plastic carry-out bags, dry cleaning bags, wraps surrounding paper towels, drink case wraps, bread bags, and more. The goal is to raise awareness and direct the public to the 18,000 retail and grocery store locations that recycle these plastic types. Since 2013, 11 companies have received ACC funding to join the How2Recycle program.

"We are thrilled that our sponsorships of the How2Recycle Store Drop-off Label have helped expand adoption by brand companies and other retailer private brands," said Shari Jackson, director of ACC's FFRG. "This label is a powerful educational tool in support of FFRG's efforts to increase public awareness and involvement in recycling plastic film packaging."