ACE UK hosted an event last week (9 November) to promote correct recycling labelling of food and drink cartons amongst retailers and food and drink manufacturers.

Figures show that OPRL members now correctly label 38% of food and drink cartons, compared to just 25% in 2015. While this is an improving picture, there is still some way to go, and this event will help to further increase the figure.

Attended by retailers and food and drink manufacturers from across the UK, the event included presentations from ACE UK on UK carton recycling and OPPRL on the OPRL labelling scheme and common problems identified during compliance audits, followed by a tour of ACE UK’s dedicated carton recycling facility.

Jane Bevis, chair of OPRL, says, "Research has shown a strong link between communication with consumers and recycling engagement. Consumers need packaging labelling to be clear and simple so they know what can be recycled and how.  This event is designed to help retailers and manufacturers label cartons consistently, so their consumers get the information they need to recycle more used cartons correctly."

Commenting on the event Richard Hands, chief executive of ACE UK, adds, "This event will help reinforce the importance of correct labelling across food and drink cartons. Simple, easy to understand on-pack recycling information is vital in helping consumers to recycle more, and we have worked closely with OPRL for a number of years to make sure cartons are properly labelled. Together we have developed the special beverage carton recycling label which reflects the wide availability of local authority collection services for cartons, often at kerbside."