US-based Yerecic Label has obtained pre-qualification status for four of its label constructions under the How2Recycle programme. 

The move is intended to simplify recycling-label applications for brands using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging. 

The pre-qualification covers the company’s SustainLabel! Preferred and SustainLabel! BOPP materials.  

Customers can now attach the relevant pre-qualification letters when they submit final packaging designs to How2Recycle, allowing assessors to bypass re-evaluating label components that have already been reviewed. 

Yerecic Label stressed that the appearance of a How2Recycle label on packaging should not be interpreted as confirmation that the entire pack is recyclable.  The label is intended to inform consumers whether and how to recycle an item, specifying the correct collection stream where applicable or indicating that it is not recyclable. 

The firm’s pre-qualification relates solely to its own label constructions.  

Brand owners and retailers must still send complete packaging systems for a full How2Recycle assessment before using the label on pack. 

In preparation for the planned introduction of the How2Recycle Pro Label system in 2026, Yerecic Label has begun including a stop sign notice on all customer proofs that feature a How2Recycle icon.  

This is designed to alert brands to check their artwork against the upcoming Pro Label design rules. 

For projects that do not fall within the scope of its pre-qualified constructions, Yerecic Label also supplies customers with label specifications to support How2Recycle pre-qualification submissions. 

In 2025, Sonoco’s EnviroCan Metal Bottom rigid paper container pre-qualified to carry the How2Recycle Check Locally label. 

The EnviroCan paper container body is made of 100% recycled fibre, with 90% derived from post-consumer resources, balancing responsible sourcing with safety. The metal bottom end is crafted from recycled steel.