The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has launched a national campaign urging Australians to “check it before you chuck it”.

Launching ahead of National Recycling Week (9–15 November), the campaign addresses 2026 research showing that while almost eight in ten Australians recognise the Australasian Recycling Label (ARL), fewer than half actually check it before disposing of packaging. With household rubbish sorting typically done on autopilot, the campaign uses humour to encourage consumers to take a quick glance at packaging instructions before binning items.

The ARL now appears on more than 500,000 products across Australia and New Zealand, providing clear disposal instructions for individual packaging components.

APCO CEO Chris Foley said the campaign would build on that investment by encouraging more Australians to use the information already in their hands.

“Businesses have invested millions of dollars in putting clear recycling information on their packaging, and the evidence shows most Australians recognise the recycling label. That’s a strong foundation – the next step is getting people to check the label each time they’re at the bin, ” Mr Foley said.

“We all get busy and default to autopilot for mundane household tasks. Our campaign uses humour to remind people that the information is already there, and taking a quick look before throwing something in the bin can make a big difference to recycling outcomes.

“The box, the lid and the wrapper might need to go in different places. Following the instructions helps keep the wrong items out of the recycling process and gives the materials we can recover a better chance of being used again.

“It’s a small action, but across millions of households it can make a difference. Check it before you chuck it – it’s not that hard.”

The national campaign is rolling out across TV, streaming, social media, and outdoor advertising, with a festive-themed follow-up scheduled for the holiday period.

INDEPENDENT NEWS IS IMPORTANT.

Enjoy reading Eco Voice? Please help us by purchasing a GIFT Voucher or send one to a friend and encourage people to purchase trees or seeds via The Native Shop – www.nativeshop.com.au

Plants, seeds & more delivered to your door!