Introduction.
In Europe, regulations on product recycling are becoming stricter every year from the standpoint of environmental protection. In particular, EU member countries are required to display the "recycling mark" to clearly communicate the need for recycling to consumers. This article provides an overview of the typical recycling marks used in Europe, plus a detailed explanation of the Triman mark, which is a unique regulation for the French market entry. For companies involved in the import, export, or sale of products, a proper understanding of and response to these marks is essential for expanding into France.
In our experience, local distributors (with sales in excess of several hundred million), etc., will always ask about the Triman mark.
In many cases, sales are suspended due to tip-offs from consumers or competitors, even though the distributor has signed a contract with the above distributor and entered the sales expansion phase.
Please note that if you ignore the regulations and continue to sell your products in France, you will surely get fried at some point.
Therefore, we recommend that you always consult with a local expert when entering the French market.
Definition of the European Recycle Mark
The "Recycle Mark" in Europe is a symbol indicating that a product or package can be reused or should be processed according to an appropriate recycling process. The best known is the "Mobius Loop," consisting of three circular arrows. There is also the WEEE Mark (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Mark) and material-specific recycling symbols such as glass, paper, and plastic.
These marks are intended to minimize the environmental impact of products once they are disposed of and provide important clues to help consumers choose the correct disposal method.
Failure to Recycle Marks
FAILURE TO PROPERLY LABEL PRODUCTS SOLD IN EUROPE WITH THE RECYCLE MARK MAY RESULT IN FINES OR SUSPENSION OF SALES BASED ON NATIONAL REGULATIONS. IN PARTICULAR, THE EU HAS INTRODUCED THE PRINCIPLE OF "EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY (EPR)," WHICH REQUIRES PRODUCERS AND IMPORTERS TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ENTIRE PRODUCT LIFE CYCLE.
FOR EXAMPLE, ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT THAT DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE WEEE DIRECTIVE COULD BE SUBJECT TO A SALES SUSPENSION OR RECALL ORDER. IN ADDITION, SINCE THERE IS A RISK OF DAMAGING CONSUMER CONFIDENCE, THE DISPLAY OF THE MARK IS NOT MERELY AN OBLIGATION, BUT ALSO A SYMBOL OF A COMPANY'S CREDIBILITY.
What is the Triman mark for entering France and recycling regulations?
A unique regulation for recycling in the French market is the Triman mark. This has been mandatory in France since January 2015, and is a mark that indicates to consumers that a product or packaging is recyclable and subject to separate collection.
The Triman mark is a simple design that includes a human-shaped symbol, an arrow, and the meaning of circulation, indicating that products should be properly sorted and disposed of. This is a system unique to France and not found in any other EU country, making it a particularly important element for companies entering France and selling products.
Products covered by the Triman mark
The following categories of products are required to display the Triman mark
- Packaging for general consumer goods (plastic, paper, metal, etc.)
- Electrical and electronics
- Textile products (clothing, shoes, etc.)
- Household Furniture
- Specialty products such as tires and batteries
However, not all items are covered, and some items may be excluded if they are reusable but do not have a recycling system in place. The scope of coverage is constantly being expanded and reviewed, so it is necessary to pay attention to the latest laws and regulations.
How to apply for the Triman mark
In order to display the Triman mark, you must first register with a French national certification organization such as "Citeo". After registration, the mark must be displayed along with recycling instructions according to the classification of the relevant product.
The application procedure is outlined below:
- Registered as a distributor of products in France
- Check the relevant product category
- Register and sign up for EPR schemes such as Citeo
- Create display content according to the recycling information (Info-tri) provided
- Triman mark and information printed on package or product
Registration and usage guidelines are supported in English, so foreign companies can be accommodated, but it should be noted that all laws and regulations are published in French.
Cautionary note on entering France!
Failing to mark Triman
Failure to comply with the obligation to display the Triman mark may result in fines of up to 15,000 euros in France. Continued violations may also result in additional penalties and sales bans.
Furthermore, in the event of an inspection by a regulatory agency or a consumer organization, a prompt corrective action will be required. Therefore, it is very important from a risk management perspective to have a system in place regarding the Triman mark.
This applies even if the sale is in the name of sample or test marketing.
Therefore, a reliable local company that understands and complies with European regulations is essential for expansion into France.
summary
The obligation to display the Recycle Mark in Europe is deeply related not only to environmental protection, but also to corporate social responsibility and building trust with consumers. In France in particular, the Triman mark requires a different response than in other countries.
It is important for companies that export or sell locally to have a proper understanding of each country's recycling mark system and labeling requirements, and to operate in compliance with the latest laws and regulations. Especially when targeting the French market, the introduction of the Triman mark is an unavoidable obligation.