Talking Trash: Takeaways From FTC Workshop On Recyclable Claims

The FTC is in the process of reviewing – and potentially revising – its Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims (Green Guides). As part of this review, the FTC recently held a public workshop focused on "recyclable" claims.

The "Talking Trash at the FTC: Recyclable Claims and the Green Guides" workshop built off of the FTC's request last year for public comment on proposed revisions to the Green Guides. Among other things, the FTC sought public comment on consumers' understanding of the term "recyclable" (as items may not be ultimately recycled due to market demand, budgetary constraints or other factors); if the current threshold for unqualified recyclable claims should be changed; if further guidance is needed for "recycled content" claims; and if the FTC should initiate a rulemaking to codify the Green Guides.