The Green Dot symbol
The internationally recognised ‘Green Dot’ symbol on a packaging indicates that the company putting the packaged product on the market pays a financial contribution for the collection, sorting and recycling of packaging. The conditions of use of the symbol may vary from country to country.
Situation in the Netherlands: use is strongly discouraged
The use of the green dot logo is strongly discouraged for producers and importers who sell packaged products on the Dutch market only. This is because the Netherlands has a statutory producer responsibility: business pays for the collection and recycling of used packaging. Therefore, the green dot logo has no added value or function in our country.
In addition, research shows that consumers are wrongly given the impression that packaging with a green dot logo is recyclable or made of recycled materials, while the logo has nothing to do with that. Hence, most Dutch entrepreneurs choose not to use this symbol.
Guidelines for symbol use
If a producer or importer does consider using the symbol, this can be done in accordance with the guidelines laid down (also available at www.verpact.nl). The symbol may be used by any producer or importer placing packaging on the Dutch market, including those not affiliated to Verpact. There are no costs associated with its use. The green dot symbol can remain on the packaging when:
1. Exactly the same packaging (including print) is marketed in other European countries;
2. The producer/importer thereby complies with the rules of the producer organisation present in the countries concerned;
3. The packaging is printed in several languages.
Situation abroad
In some countries the use of the ‘Green Dot’ as a symbol is compulsory. If you want to use the symbol abroad, please check the rules of use in the country concerned.