Can you recycle that? CALPIRG-backed bill is poised to set the record straight.

Californians have been misled long enough by the misuse of the chasing arrows recycling symbol.

On Sept. 8, the California Assembly voted to prohibit manufacturers from using the recycling symbol on non-recyclable materials. Plastic producers have long used the chasing arrows even on products that are rarely if ever recycled. If approved by the state Senate, the bill will reduce consumer confusion and, we hope, nudge consumers toward truly environment-friendly products.

“Consumers have the right to know if the products they are using are recyclable or not. This transparency is critical to shifting the market towards more recyclable material,” said Jenn Engstrom, CALPIRG state director.

“It’s impossible for consumers to reward good actors and avoid unnecessary waste when they’re being duped by the plastic industry.”

CALPIRG urged the state Senate to pass the bill and Gov. Newsom to sign the bill if and when it reaches his desk.

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Learn more about our Beyond Plastic Campaign.