The company explained that this is a big step towards giving people “simple, consistent and recognisable recycling guidance” as its research shows that almost every home in the UK contains at least four P&G Products.
The OPRL Scheme looks to give consumers standardised information on whether the packaging of the product they are purchasing is commonly collected by local authorities for recycling.
The single label, which is intended to make recycling less confusing for consumers, was launched in March 2009.
Head and Shoulders
P&G – which owns brands such as Pampers and Head and Shoulders – announced that its joining of the scheme marks a “significant milestone” in the company’s ‘Ambition 2030’, which aims for 100% of product packaging to be recyclable or reusable.
Commenting after joining the OPRL scheme, Scott Popham, senior communications manager for P&G, said the company is joining after seeing how small changes can have an environmental impact.
“Our research shows that advice on-pack is the single most important source of information for consumers on recycling and consumers keep telling us that all they want is consistent messaging, no matter whose packaging they look at,” he explained.
Mr Popham added: “This major move by P&G’s brands to roll out the label means millions more will see the same advice on their favourite brands, every day. Together we are shaping the nation’s recycling habits.”
According to recent research by OPRL, 84% of consumers check packaging for recycling advice, yet more than half (54%) put at least one item in the general rubbish bin per day that can be recycled.
Best practice
The OPRL scheme has also been recognised by the UN Environment Programme as “international best practice”.
Jane Bevis, Chair of OPRL said: “We’re delighted that P&G is joining OPRL and adopting our labelling on its UK brands as part of their commitment to engaging consumers in taking environmental action.
Mr Bevis added: “This major move by P&G’s brands to roll out the label means millions more will see the same advice on their favourite brands, every day. Together we are shaping the nation’s recycling habits.”
More than 600 brands across all sectors, including manufacturers and producers, charities, retailers and leisure organisations, have already signed up to the scheme since its launch a decade ago.
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