June 4, 2025

45. Recycling labels explained, with Alice Harlock from OPRL

45. Recycling labels explained, with Alice Harlock from OPRL
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45. Recycling labels explained, with Alice Harlock from OPRL

This week on the podcast, James and Robbie sit down with Alice Harlock from OPRL, the organisation behind those “recycle” or “do not recycle” labels on packaging. We increasingly rely on these labels to guide our recycling habits, but how do they stay accurate in a world of constantly changing local rules and slow packaging timelines? Alice shares the challenges and surprising complexities behind recycling communication, and why getting it right matters more than ever.

This week on the podcast, James and Robbie sit down with Alice Harlock from OPRL, the organisation behind those “recycle” or “do not recycle” labels on packaging. We increasingly rely on these labels to guide our recycling habits, but how do they stay accurate in a world of constantly changing local rules and slow packaging timelines? Alice shares the challenges and surprising complexities behind recycling communication, and why getting it right matters more than ever.

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

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Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL

Alice Harlock Profile Photo

Alice Harlock

Director of Technical and Member Services

Alice has worked for the On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) since 2014 and heads up the Member Support team, providing support on labelling of packaging determining its recyclability.

Alice started her career at Garden Organic, formerly known as the Henry Doubleday Research Association, as part of the Sustainable Waste Team. She moved to WRAP in 2005 to continue work on consumer communications through the Home Composting Programme, Recycle Now and Recycle for London campaigns.