The Green Dot mark is extensively used on all forms of packaging as it is widely used in many European countries to finance Waste Recovery Schemes. The EU requires that member states recycle high portions of waste originating from packaging. In line with these requirements, newly introduced local waste regulations mandate that all forms of packaging are recovered from the waste stream and recycled.

Whilst over the years, various countries have taken different routes to recycle waste, including the adoption of eco taxes, none have been more successful than the Green Dot model. In line with the pollution Pays Principle, this model allows the very same generators of packaging to manage and finance the recycling of waste material. Being driven by the need to operate such a scheme at the least possible costs, Green Dot has proved that it is a sensible and practical scheme for recycling large quantities of waste.

So successful has this scheme been that the Canadian organisation CSR is in the process of introducing the Green Dot model in North America. ProEUROPE held this Managers’ Meeting in Toronto to support such an initiative.

In Malta, GreenPak are issuing local importers and manufacturers with the necessary licenses to use the much coveted Green Dot symbol on their packaging. Products, carrying this symbol will form part of an authorised waste recovery scheme and therefore be entitled to exemption from any eco taxes as they would be able to show that they are collecting, sorting and recycling their packaging that is put on the local market in line with local legislation.

Various importers, re-packers, manufacturers and other companies have already registered the use of the Green Dot mark on their products with GreenPak. Work is also underway to bring onboard other companies who do not yet have this mark but are keen to participate in a recovery scheme. Further details on how to participate are available directly from the company on tel. 21 803374 ext 24 or by e-mail: packaging@ais.com.mt