UK Recycling can be very confusing; not knowing what to put where and why, can cause additional waste management issues. In this guide we explore some of the key types of recycling and what to do with it.
You pick up a yoghurt pot or cardboard sleeve and see a triangle, arrows, or a bin icon — but what does it actually mean? The UK’s recycling system is full of symbols, and not all of them mean what you think.
This guide breaks down the most common UK recycling symbols, so you can recycle correctly and confidently — and keep more waste out of landfill.
♻️ The 7 Most Common UK Recycling Symbols
1. Mobius Loop ♻️
What it means: The item can be recycled — but not necessarily in your local area
Look for: Additional instructions nearby
✅ Tip: Check with your local council recycling scheme
2. Recyclable with Recycling Percentage ♻️ 70%
What it means: The packaging is recyclable, and a specific % of recycled content is used
✅ Good to support — helps drive circular material use
3. The Green Dot (⚫🟢)
What it means: The manufacturer contributes to recycling efforts in Europe
❌ Does NOT mean the packaging is recyclable
4. Plastic Resin Codes (1–7 inside triangle)
What it means: Tells you what type of plastic is used (PET, HDPE, etc.)
✅ Only types 1 and 2 (PET and HDPE) are widely recycled in the UK
❌ Types 3–7 are often rejected at kerbside
5. Widely Recycled / Check Locally / Not Yet Recycled
Usually found on food packaging:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ✅ Widely Recycled | Most councils accept it |
| ❓ Check Locally | Some accept it, some don’t |
| ❌ Not Yet Recycled | Goes in general waste |
✅ Tip: Use the Recycle Now postcode checker to confirm what your council accepts
6. Compostable / Biodegradable
Compostable (usually certified with a seedling logo): Can break down in commercial composting
Biodegradable: Vague — no official standard
❌ Compostables can contaminate recycling bins — keep them separate
7. Tidyman Symbol (man with bin)
What it means: Reminder to dispose responsibly
❌ Not related to recycling at all
🛒 Bonus: Recycling Logos You Might See When Shopping Online
- FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council): Sustainable wood or paper
- Metal Recycles Forever: Recyclable aluminium or steel
- Glass Recycle Symbol: For jars and bottles — rinse before recycling
🗑 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dirty packaging: Greasy pizza boxes can’t be recycled
- Mixed materials: Cardboard with plastic film often isn’t recyclable
- Wishcycling: Just because it looks recyclable doesn’t mean it is
Final Thought
Knowing what those little icons mean makes a big difference. By understanding UK recycling symbols, you can recycle more effectively and avoid contaminating your bin — a small step with big environmental impact.