trash room

TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Sorting Out Recycling Claims

Store shelves are filled with items that say they are eco-friendly. Some products that claim to be better for the environment live up to the hype. Others don’t. Claims that a product or packaging is “environmentally friendly", “eco-safe,” or “better for the environment” may sound good, but may not deliver on their promises. Look for products that explain why they are better for the environment.

Translating “Eco-Speak”

Understanding terms like “recyclable,” “biodegradable,” and “ozone friendly” can help you protect the environment and make better buying decisions.

“Recycled” — “Recycled” and “recyclable” may sound alike, but they mean very different things. If a label says a product is “recycled,” check for more details. Unless the product or package is made of 100% recycled materials, the label must tell you how much is recycled. A product that says it’s recycled from “post-consumer” material means that it’s made from previously used products like newspapers, plastic bottles, glass containers, or aluminum cans. A product that says it's recycled from “pre-consumer” material may be made of scraps from the factory. For example, a company making envelopes might recycle paper clippings left over from the manufacturing process to make other paper goods.

“Recyclable” — Claims on labels and advertising that a product is “recyclable” mean that it can be collected and used again or can be made into other useful products. A “recyclable” product is a good choice for the environment only if your community offers a recycling program for that material and you follow their rules for recycling.

Some companies make it easy for you to recycle. For example, grocery stores may take back plastic grocery bags. Some manufacturers of ink cartridges for printers may let you return empty cartridges. Check with your local recycling or solid waste officials about what can be recycled in your community.

“Biodegradable” and “Photodegradable” — “Biodegradable” materials break down into elements found in nature when they are exposed to air or moisture. Cleaning products, like detergents and shampoos, often say they are “biodegradable.” Most of these products degrade in wastewater systems, causing no harm to the environment. “Photodegradable” materials disintegrate when exposed to enough sunlight. However, the breakdown of any material happens very slowly in landfills, where most garbage is taken. Even “biodegradable” materials like paper or food may take decades to break down because they’re buried under tons of other garbage. Just because a product claims to be “biodegradable” or “photodegradable” doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s better for the environment, especially if it winds up in a landfill.

“Compostable” — Composting turns certain things into compost—a material that enriches the soil and returns nutrients to the earth. Some people compost yard trimmings and food scraps. Many communities collect leaves, grass, and other yard waste for composting. When you see a “compostable” claim on a product or package, it means the product can be tossed into your backyard compost pile. If you don’t have your own composting pile, you might be able to take products to a municipal composting facility.

Secret Symbols

Certain symbols on a product or package can tell you whether it's recyclable or if it’s made from recycled materials. Deciphering those symbols can help you make better decisions for the environment.

“Chasing arrows” symbol
Many products display this symbol. Sometimes it means that a product or package is made of recycled materials. Other times it means that the product or package is recyclable. If only one of these claims is true, the manufacturer should say which one. Since some communities don’t accept every product or package for recycling that bears the symbol, check with your local recycling or solid waste officials before you recycle.

SPI Symbol
Manufacturers use this symbol—developed by the Society of the Plastics Industry—to label the type of plastic in a product. SPI codes range from 1 to 7. Containers labeled 1 and 2, such as soda bottles, detergent and shampoo containers, and milk jugs, are the most likely to be accepted for recycling. Since communities have different rules about what they’ll accept, check with your local recycling or solid waste officials before you recycle.

For more information, look for the FTC’s “Green Guides” or call toll-free 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357, TDD: 1-866-653-4261). EPA has information on recycling at www.epa.gov or from the Pollution Prevention Information Clearinghouse at 202-566-0799.