PR3: The Global Alliance to Advance Reuse has introduced a global symbol for reuse systems, a development that could affect how packaging, return points and related infrastructure are marked across markets.
Unveiled in Washington DC on 3 June 2026, the symbol is intended to identify reusable packaging and the systems that support its collection, washing and repeated circulation. For packaging suppliers, converters, brand owners and retailers, the mark adds a new visual cue that may sit alongside existing pack graphics, return instructions and consumer-facing information.
The symbol can be used on reusables and reuse infrastructure, including cups, foodware, to-go containers, wine and beverage bottles, cleaning and homecare product containers, collection bins, logistics vehicles, marketing material, signage and city-wide systems.
The mark was developed through Rebrand Reuse, a global design initiative launched in 2025 by the PR3 Global Standards Panel. The process received 236 submissions from 29 countries across every continent except Antarctica. The winning design was created by Nicole Ascanio Rodriguez and Juan Navarrete, designers and co-founders of Epigrama Studios in Bogotá, Colombia.
Selection followed jury review, consumer research involving 1,275 respondents across 17 countries, and legal evaluation. PR3 said the symbol was assessed for distinctiveness, memorability, actionability, cultural adaptability and recognizability.
“We wanted to create a symbol that communicates return, continuity and circulation – something simple enough to travel globally, but meaningful enough to represent a new relationship with materials and waste,” said Navarrete.
Use of the symbol is tied to criteria within the PR3 Marking & Labeling Standard, expected to be published by the American National Standards Institute. It may be used only on packaging and infrastructure operating within systems covering collection, transport, sorting, washing and reuse.
PR3 has developed reuse standards through a consensus body representing more than 80 organisations across industry, government, NGOs and reuse operators.