Ever stared at the back of a product and wondered what all those little symbols actually mean? You’re not alone. Packaging labels can be confusing — but for businesses committed to sustainability, understanding them is essential.
Whether you’re designing your own product packaging or sourcing eco-friendly materials, knowing your sustainable packaging symbols helps you stay compliant, honest, and transparent with your customers.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common eco packaging labels — and how to use them right.
1. Mobius Loop ♻️ (Recyclable)
You’ve seen this one — it’s the universal recycling symbol. But did you know it doesn’t always mean the product is fully recyclable?
What it means: The item can be recycled — if local recycling systems accept it.
Best used on: Cardboard boxes, PET plastics, glass jars.
✅ Tip: Don’t use it unless your packaging is actually recyclable through most curbside programs.
2. Green Dot (Not What You Think)
This symbol doesn’t mean your packaging is recyclable. Instead, it shows the manufacturer contributed financially to a packaging recovery organization (common in Europe).
What it means: The brand pays into a system that helps recover and recycle packaging waste.
Best used for: Brands selling in the EU.
✅ Tip: Don’t confuse this with the Mobius loop — they look similar but mean very different things.
3. Compostable Label
This usually appears as a leaf or plant-based symbol with the word “compostable.” But be careful — industrial compostable and home compostable are not the same thing.
What it means: The packaging can break down into non-toxic matter under specific conditions.
Best used on: PLA mailers, paper wrappers, corn starch bags.
✅ Tip: Use certified logos like BPI, TÜV Austria, or EN 13432 to back up the claim.
4. FSC-Certified 🌲 (Forest Stewardship Council)
This label means the paper or cardboard used comes from responsibly managed forests. It’s one of the most trusted certifications for eco packaging.
What it means: The materials are harvested sustainably and ethically.
Best used on: Boxes, mailers, labels.
✅ Tip: This is a great way to show environmental responsibility and build trust with eco-conscious buyers.
5. Plastic Resin Codes (Numbers 1–7)
Those little triangles with numbers inside? They tell you what kind of plastic was used.
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#1 PET: Recyclable
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#2 HDPE: Recyclable
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#3–7: Often not accepted curbside
What it means: Not all plastics are equal. Some are widely accepted, others not so much.
Best used when: Your packaging contains plastic and needs sorting info.
✅ Tip: Avoid plastics with #3 (PVC) and #6 (PS) if you’re aiming for sustainability.
Final Thoughts
Understanding eco packaging labels isn’t just helpful — it’s a must if your brand wants to be transparent and environmentally responsible. These symbols guide recycling, influence customer trust, and keep you in line with packaging regulations.
If you’re not sure which labels to include or how to source certified materials, Direct Source Procurement can help you get it right — from design to delivery.
