Every day, we dispose of packaging, but do we truly understand the symbols displayed on them? A study conducted by Plasticsheetsshop among over 800 British people reveals that a significant portion of the population is unaware of the meanings behind packaging symbols. The research also highlights a strong desire for clearer information.
A striking 90% of respondents admitted to knowing the meaning of only a few symbols, while 6% confessed to not understanding any at all. Fortunately, a small group (4%) reported being well-versed in these symbols, facilitating more effective waste separation.
Disposing of waste based on intuition
When uncertain about which bin to use for a particular piece of packaging, 58% rely on their intuition. Only 17% consult official waste separation guidelines, whereas 21% dispose of such packaging in the general waste bin without further consideration.
Recognition of symbols
The study asked respondents about the meanings of seven packaging symbols. On average, 82% correctly identified them. However, participants struggled most with the symbol indicating that “each piece of packaging, a financial contribution has been paid to a national packaging recovery organisation,” with only 12% recognizing it. Additionally, 14% failed to identify the glass recycling symbol. In contrast, nearly all respondents recognized the symbol meaning “you should throw it in the trash after use.”
Differences across regions and ages
Interestingly, people from London were the most sure to know what all the packaging symbols mean: 10.23% said they were sure to know the meaning vs. 4.18% for across the UK. Londoners were also most likely to research or look at waste separation guidelines – 21.59% compared to 17.36% across the UK. In Yorkshire and the Humber only 5% of people indicated checking separation guidelines.
When looking at differences across ages people under 25 years old indicated they were the most sure to know the meaning of all symbols – 9.64%, compared to only 3.37% of 65+ year olds.
Need for clarity
The research underscores a strong demand for better explanations of packaging symbols. A substantial 69% of those surveyed believe that clearer information would make waste separation significantly easier.
Women seemed to find clarity for symbols more pressing than men – 75.95% indicated they find it very important, while only 62.66% of men shared that view.
Curious about the rest of the results? Then click here.
