The reform is in keeping with the incoming Simpler Recycling legislation which mandates that local authorities implement the kerbside collection of cartons by April next year.
This will include aseptic and chilled cartons, such as those that contain long-life milk and soup.
Ben Powell, head of external affairs at the Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment (ACE) UK, said: “This milestone announcement means that for the first time, liquid cartons will use OPRL’s widely recognised ‘Recycle’ label.
“This provides citizens with a simple message that we know is clear and well-understood.”
Currently, the kerbside collection of cartons is available in 69% of local authority areas.
Evidence has now been provided to confirm that this figure will rise beyond the 75% level need to quality for the “Recycle” label by 1 April 2026 at the latest.
OPRL has also released new research confirming that 89% of consumers look to packaging labels when deciding how to recycle, and 81% recognise the “Recycle” symbol.
Powell continued: “Through our Carton Ready Campaign, ACE UK is working with local councils to assist with the transition to kerbside collection. Through our research and ongoing relationships with councils, we were able to demonstrate to OPRL that kerbside collections from households are on course to exceed the 75% threshold by April at the latest.”
“This is supported by the fact that the number of councils collecting at kerbside has grown from 66% to 69% in the past few months alone, this is progress that we are proud to be part of and demonstrates the success of the Simpler Recycling reforms.
“There is more work to be done, and for local authorities yet to make the switch to kerbside collections, ACE UK is here to help, so please get in touch.”
Find out more about packaging legislation in the UK at the Letsrecycle EPR Conference in London on 12 November 2025. Find out more and register your interest here.
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