You've probably come across it before: the “turtle logo” on disposable cups and other disposable products. But what exactly does this logo mean? In this blog, we explain it to you!

New labeling laws since July 2022

As of July 2022, the new labeling laws came into effect, which means you will see this turtle logo more and more often on disposable cups and other plastic (containing) products. The purpose of this measure is to make consumers aware of the materials used and inform them of the proper way to dispose of these products.

Why is there a turtle on the logo?

The turtle was chosen to symbolize plastic pollution because of the serious impact plastic waste has on these animals. At least 1,000 turtles die every year due to entanglement in plastic waste. Many turtles also suffocate in plastic waste because they mistake it for food. The turtle logo is intended to remind consumers of this reality and encourage them to properly dispose of disposable plastic containers.

SUP measures and the turtle logo

As of July 3, 2021, the SUP (Single-Use Plastics) measures took effect in the EU. This means that cups and other disposable packaging containing plastic and delivered after this date must carry the “plastic in product” label. This label is mandatory for products sold in EU member states. The purpose of the SUP measures is to reduce the use of disposable plastic and reduce the impact on the environment.

What does the SUP logo look like?

Drinking cups containing a portion of plastic, regardless of quantity, should have the following label:

Drinking cups made entirely of plastic must have the following label:

What is the purpose of the turtle logo on cups?

• Create awareness
  The logo helps make consumers aware of the presence of plastic in disposable products and its environmental impact. It reminds people that their choices have a direct impact on the environment.
• Inform about proper waste management
  By placing the turtle logo, consumers are informed about how to properly dispose of these plastic (containing) products. This is to ensure that plastic waste does not end up in nature.
• Producer responsibility
  Producers are required to put a SUP logo on their products if they contain plastic. This ensures that companies are clearer about the materials used and encourages them to choose more sustainable options.

What can you do?

As a consumer, you can help protect the environment by being conscious about disposable plastic. Here are some tips:

• Choose sustainable alternatives: Consider buying products made from biodegradable or recycled materials.
• Dispose of plastic properly: Make sure your (plastic) products are properly disposed of or recycled.
• Reduce use of disposable plastic: Try to reduce the use of disposable plastic as much as possible by using plastic-free or reusable products.

At TakeAware, we strive for a world without plastic and without plastic soup. Therefore, we offer a wide range of plastic-free disposables in our web shop. Order our plastic-free disposables today and make your business SUP-proof!