Is Your Recycling Bin Lying To You ?

Consumers are regularly told to recycle more, but what happens when packaging labels are confusing, local systems are inconsistent and carefully sorted waste still ends up in landfill?

In this episode, Aarhus University researchers Niki Alexi and Geraldine Vásquez explore why reducing food packaging waste is a shared responsibility. They explain that packaging plays an important role in protecting food and extending shelf life, but the materials, symbols and disposal systems surrounding it are often too difficult to navigate.

The discussion also explores InformPack, an EIT Food-funded initiative that investigated what people know about food packaging, what they want to understand and how they prefer to receive information. Its research shows that clear, practical guidance can change behaviour, but lasting progress also requires better packaging design, reliable waste systems, education, industry collaboration and supportive policy.

Key takeaways

Packaging cannot simply be eliminated.

Packaging protects food and helps prevent food waste. The challenge is to use it more sustainably and ensure it can be properly collected, reused or recycled.

Recycling symbols are often misunderstood.

Even packaging experts can struggle to interpret common symbols. A logo that resembles a recycling mark does not necessarily mean an item is recyclable.

Trust keeps people engaged.

People need confidence that the time they spend sorting and cleaning packaging leads to it being handled correctly.

The sustainable choice must be easy.

Clear labels, accessible bins and materials that are simple to separate can make better disposal behaviour part of everyday life.

Information alone is not enough.

InformPack’s campaigns encouraged many participants to change their routines, but those who could not do so often cited practical barriers.

Responsibility belongs across the system.

Consumers, businesses, retailers, waste managers and policymakers must work together to create packaging and recycling systems that function in practice.

Education can support lasting change.

Practical learning from an early age can help people understand packaging, make informed choices and recognise the environmental impact of their actions.