European Union Proposes Harmonised Waste Sorting Labels to Improve Recycling and Market Consistency

On 13 January 2026, the European Union Publication office Luxembourg, published the JRC Technical Proposal on EU Harmonised Waste Sorting Labels under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) to provide scientific and technical guidance for developing a unified waste-sorting labelling system across the European Union. Prepared by the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the European Commission’s science and knowledge service, the report supports the implementation of Articles 12(6) and 13(2) of the PPWR by proposing harmonised, consumer-facing labels for packaging and waste receptacles. The report addresses the fragmentation of national waste-sorting labels, which creates confusion for consumers, reduces recycling efficiency, and imposes regulatory burdens on producers operating in the internal market. It proposes a material-based labelling approach that focuses on informing consumers about the material composition of packaging rather than disposal destinations, in line with PPWR requirements. A key principle is the “matching” concept, whereby identical labels appear on packaging and on waste receptacles to enable intuitive and accurate sorting. The proposal is grounded in extensive behavioural and participatory design research, including desk studies, citizen workshops, large-scale surveys, behavioural experiments, and consultations with more than 250 expert stakeholders and over 25,000 EU citizens. The visual system combines pictograms, colour coding, minimal and multilingual text, accessibility features, and optional digital tools such as QR codes. System-level design elements cover label granularity, multi-component packaging, composite materials, compostable and hazardous packaging, and the use of meta-labels on waste bins. The report emphasises flexibility within harmonisation, allowing Member States to adapt the system to diverse waste-collection infrastructures while maintaining consistency across the EU. It also identifies challenges, including implementation costs, alignment with existing national schemes, space constraints on packaging, and the need for education and awareness campaigns. Overall, the report provides a robust, evidence-based foundation to guide the European Commission in drafting implementing acts that enhance recycling performance, reduce market barriers, and strengthen the EU’s transition to a circular economy.