The History of Plastic: The Theft Of The Recycling Symbol

The original Resin Identification Codes (RIC) symbol was three arrows forming a triangle with a number in the center.
The similarity to the paper recycling symbol likely created confusion, as did efforts to make recycling as easy as possible through the single-stream collection process.
For all the unintended consequences, however, the recycling symbol demonstrates the power designers have to nudge humanity towards sustainable behavior.
For all the good intentions the CCA had, the recycling symbol became a tool of plastic lobbyists looking to stave off perceived threats to their industry by creating confusion over recycling.
Perhaps Anderson’s recycling symbol now represents the most pertinent fact about recycling itself – it’s fundamentally broken.

thedieline Member since June 14, 2020

Dieline is a bespoke creative platform that exists to serve the packaging community. Our mission is to build a global community of practitioners and to advocate the packaging industry towards more sustainable solutions through creativity and innovation.