Many salon owners want to recycle more, but confusion over product labels often hinders efforts. A recent guide breaks down common recycling symbols to clarify what can and cannot be recycled in UK salons.
The Mobius Loop symbol indicates an item is recyclable, though not guaranteed for all local collections. A percentage accompanying this symbol shows the recycled content within the product. Plastic items are identified by Resin Codes one through seven, specifying the plastic type.
Symbols for glass and aluminium simply confirm the material's recyclability. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) logo ensures wood-based products originate from managed or recycled sources. Steel items are confirmed recyclable by all UK local authorities.
Specific labels address recycling limitations. 'Not Yet Recycled' applies to items recycled by less than 20% of UK local authorities. 'Check Locally' signifies packaging collected by 20-75% of authorities, requiring individual verification. 'Widely Recycled' means an item is collected by over 75% of councils, sometimes with instructions for preparation like rinsing.
Compostable items, marked by a seedling, must be kept separate from recyclables to avoid contamination. The Green Dot symbol indicates a financial contribution to packaging recycling in Europe, not necessarily that the packaging itself is recyclable. Waste electricals require specific disposal routes, often at local recycling centres or larger retailers.
While the guide clarifies existing symbols, it highlights a need for clearer manufacturer communication and consistent local authority collection policies. Salon businesses must actively check local council guidelines, as symbol interpretations can vary.
