QR Codes on Packaging to Help Answer Recycling Questions

A QR code on a product’s package may be a new way to answer the common question, “Can I recycle this?”

The Recycling Partnership, which works with companies on achieving packaging circularity, has created a new platform called Recycle Check. Recycle Check gives customers the ability to scan a QR code on a product’s packaging where they can enter their zip code and find out if that item can go into the recycling bin or not.

"It'll show you a yes, no answer for your local recycling information, which is super helpful. You don't have to guess about where do I check locally? It can give it to you right there," said Katherine Huded, Vice President of Recyclability Solutions for The Recycling Partnership.

Starting in October, customers will see the Recycle Check QR code on select grocery items such as milk and seasonal frozen pies, according to Huded.

"Because aluminum pie trays are only accepted in approximately 40 percent of residential curbside collection programs, the QR code label provides clarity on where the item is accepted for recycling," The Recycling Partnership announced in a press release.

Currently, General Mills and Horizon Organic have enrolled in the program.

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