Recycling

ALDI’s commitment to recycling

ALDI has been committed to recycling and helping our customers do the same since we first opened our doors in 2001. That’s why we continue to take responsibility for our environmental impact. Find out how we are helping Aussies recycle below.

Getting back to the recycling basics

Before we explain how you can recycle with ALDI, let’s look at a few of the common recycling mistakes that are often made.

Ensure all your recycling is loose in the bin (not in a bag)
Follow the ARL logo instructions on packaging and containers
Check in with your local council to see what should or shouldn’t be recycled
Fill your recycling bin correctly and ensure the lid can be closed on collection day
Remove all food and liquid from containers
Put bottles in the recycling, unless returning through your local Container Deposit Scheme (CDS)
Remember that every little bit counts

Four ways to reduce, reuse, recycle

Here are some easy ways to build recycling into your routine, so that we can work towards creating a more sustainable future together.

1. Battery recycling

ALDI has offered battery recycling in store since 2013 and was the first supermarket in Australia to offer a national battery recycling service. There is a B-cycle drop-off point at the front of every ALDI store, so remember to bring your old household batteries on your next visit. Find your nearest store here.

You can find more information on battery recycling here.

2. Container Deposit Schemes

ALDI encourages participation in the various state-based Container Deposit Schemes (CDS). Customers can obtain a 10c refund on eligible drink containers purchased in our SA, WA, QLD, ACT, NSW and VIC stores. Most drink containers will be accepted, but for the full list of eligible containers, or to find your nearest deposit point, check the CDS websites in your state or territory.

3. Know your labels

The Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) on packaging explains how to recycle correctly. Under the ARL system, there are four classifications of labels:

Recyclable

Packaging with the black triangle* on the label can be recycled as it is, so place items with this label into a recycling bin.

Conditionally Recyclable

If the packaging features a white triangle* you must follow the instructions on how to recycle this packaging. If you don’t, it won’t be recycled and could cause contamination of the recycling stream.

Not Recyclable

Packaging with the bin symbol means the item cannot be recycled and should be placed in the general waste bin.

Check Locally

Packaging with the geotag symbol is a recyclability classification under Conditionally Recyclable which means the packaging may only be recyclable if local recycling options are available (i.e., eligible soft plastics and aseptic cartons).

Hard plastics, paper, food cans, cardboard, glass bottles and jars may all go in the kerbside recycling bin. Remember to check the ARL logo instructions on packaging labels to see if you need to replace any caps or lids when recycling bottles.

Some coffee capsules can be recycled but they can’t go in the household recycling bin. You need to dispose of coffee capsules at an accredited recycling drop-off point. For the most up to date information for your area, check Planet Ark’s Recycling Near You page.

*The symbol composed of three arrows looping back on themselves in a clockwise direction is known as a Mobius Loop. This is used to indicate that packaging can be recycled, but it isn’t always applied accurately, which is why you should always check for the Australasian Recycling Logo (ARL) to make sure your packaging can be recycled.

ALDI is committed to putting the Australasian Recycling Labels (ARL) on all ALDI branded products. Learn more about our ongoing journey to improve our packaging here.