Clearly Explained
Recycling Terminology
Info-sorting, what is it?
Info-sorting is the indication that now accompanies the Triman logo and specifies the sorting action (the place where I must drop off or throw away my used product or its packaging). This system is to address both recyclable and non-recyclable materials. For example, sometimes you have to separate the items and throw them in different sorting bins, sometimes you have to bring the product back to a collection point or store, and sometimes it is possible to give them to an association. This information is now clearly given to the consumer thanks to this new signage. Since 15 June 2023, packaging that is not compliant with the new Triman signage rules may no longer be placed on the French market.
Why did the French legislator see a reason for a change?
High-quality recycling can only succeed if there are waste streams that are as well sorted as possible. For the first step, it is up to the consumer to put the specific waste along the correct recycling path. This is where the sorting instructions are intended to help the consumer. France wants to increase its recycling rate and support the circular economy.
Which products are affected by Info-sorting?
A large quantity of everyday products. These are products that are subject to a polluter-pays sector (EPR sector). In concrete terms, these are packaging, clothing, shoes, furniture, electrical and electronic appliances, toys, sports and leisure items, medicines, etc.
What does the logo look like?
According to French law, two elements to the labelling must be displayed:
- The Triman logo:
- Sorting information, which means “specifying the sorting methods or deposit of waste resulting from the product on the product, its packaging, or failing this, contained in other documents supplied with the product (manual, instructions for use, etc.)”.
The new Triman format must be accompanied by sorting information, which can be in text or symbols, or both. Please note: if text is included, it must be in French.
Where can I find Sorting Info?
The sorting info specifying the sorting bin for the packaging must be visible on the packaging itself. For other everyday products (batteries, medicines, electrical and electronic equipment, furniture, etc.), the Sorting Info must be affixed to the product packaging, to the product or, failing that, to a document accompanying the product (a leaflet for example).
The new format requires a sorting advice, which can be in text (French!) or symbols, or both. If the products are not exclusively for the French market, the country code “FR” should also be applied. This is to avoid confusion for customers in other (French-speaking) countries, where different sorting rules may apply.
The Triman Logo
Tab labelled “FR”
Packaging components
Text and Pictogram
or
Text only
or
Pictogram only
Target stream
Text and Pictogram
and/or
Target stream
Pictogram only
and/or
Generally, all packaging that is not from glass should be disposed of in the “yellow bin” in France. Glass packaging, on the other hand, goes into the green glass container. This makes sorting, as well as labelling very straight-forward.
If packaging consists of multiple parts, the elements and their respective way of sorting should be displayed separately. For instance:
The Triman Logo should ideally be 10mm in height and may never be smaller than 6mm. It must be printed in black and white, whereas the sorting advice can be either in colour or in black and white. Glass bottles for beverages do not require the Triman signage at all, although it may be used optionally.
Are there further specifications?
CERT has captured the general labelling guidance provided by CITEO regarding labelling and information requirements. The Department of International Trade (DIT) and CITEO also did a useful presentation on Household Packaging and Labelling in France.
Does this labelling obligation only apply to France?
Yes; the process outlined above is specifically for the French market. Please head over here to see the labelling requirements for the Italian market.
What happens if I don’t label my packaging accordingly?
Checks on compliance with this measure are carried out by the General Directorate for Consumer Affairs, Competition and Fraud Prevention (DGCCRF).
- For a natural person, the maximum amount of the administrative fine is €3,000 per product that does not have Info-sorting.
- For a legal person, the maximum amount of the administrative fine is €15,000 per product that does not have Info-sorting.
If in doubt about the sorting gesture, you can visit the website quefairedemesdéchets.gouv.fr to find out the correct sorting gesture for my product.
Please find more information from the recycling system you are connected to below:
Note: This information is provided as general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. If you require more detailed support, please either get in contact with the market authority responsible for packaging sustainability or please feel free to get in contact with CERT regulatory team.
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