10 signatures reached
To: Manufacturers and food producers who package goods
ReFit - prominent traffic light recycling information on packaging
Introduce a simple-to-use traffic light system to enable consumers to choose products that use recyclable (or biodegradable) packaging.
Packaging should prominently display one of
1) a green tick (indicating that it is fully recyclable or biodegradable)
2) an orange question mark (parts of the packaging are recyclable or biodegradable)
3) a red 'X' (no part of the packaging is recyclable or biodegradable)
The symbol should be placed at either the left or right top of the face of the packaging or labelling (traffic light nutrional information - if on the front face - is invariably at the bottom). The symbol should be clear and bold, and set within a black box with the length of the sides not smaller than 8mm.
Why is this important?
The current detailed recycling information on packaging (while necessary) is often complex, and doesn't allow the consumer to make rapid and informed judgements on packaging when shopping.
The system will succeed because it is voluntary. The population will drive change through market forces. Companies who use environmentally friendly packaging will be keen to display the logo (and thus gain sales), companies using non-recyclable packaging could lose sales and will thus be encouraged to adopt recyclable packaging with a greater urgency.
This scheme will work because it is simple. It's a rapid way to push through change without waiting for Government to legislate. There really can't be any excuses when it comes to the environment.
'ReFit' is a short form for 'Fit for Recycling'.
