Guide to using the Triman logo

Find out how to use the Triman logo correctly and in line with regulations in France. Maximise the visibility of your environmental commitment.

What is the Triman logo?

Since 1 January 2022, the French environmental code, supported by the French Ministry for the Ecological Transition, requires products falling under extended producer responsibility (EPR) to display the Triman logo on their packaging. This symbol aims to inform consumers about the waste sorting rules associated with these products.

The Triman logo raises consumers' awareness of the need to sort products correctly and to place them in specific collection points, rather than in household waste. It is accompanied by detailed information on sorting and disposal procedures.

Each sector, in collaboration with the producer responsibility organisations or individual systems, develops its own marking approved by the ministries in charge of the environment and consumer affairs. This approach ensures harmonisation in line with legal requirements.

The Triman logo is a legal obligation in France for products falling under EPR. Manufacturers, importers, distributors and sellers must display it visibly on the packaging or label of the products concerned.

The Triman logo applies to various sectors of activity, including food, textiles, electronics, chemicals, tyres, batteries, and many others. This wide scope reflects the ambition of the regulations to cover products that generate waste requiring responsible management.

Legal use of the Triman logo: information and procedures

The process of applying for and obtaining the Triman logo generally involves submitting an official application to the producer responsibility organisation or individual waste management system of the sector concerned. This application must be accompanied by detailed information on the products, as well as the associated sorting and disposal procedures. Once submitted, the application is reviewed and processed in accordance with the guidelines set by the ministries in charge of the environment and consumer affairs.

To be eligible to use the Triman logo, companies must meet a number of criteria. These criteria vary by sector and may include requirements relating to product composition, quantities placed on the market, waste management, and other relevant factors. It is therefore essential for companies to make sure they meet these criteria before applying.

It should be noted that in some cases, displaying the Triman logo may require additional certifications or labels. It is therefore important to refer to the requirements specific to each sector of activity.

Guidelines for using the Triman logo: maximise the impact of your environmental commitment

Displaying the Triman logo correctly and consistently is essential to communicate your commitment to selective sorting and responsible waste management effectively. To display the Triman logo properly, it is important to take the following into account:

Size, proportion and placement: The size of the Triman logo must be suitable to ensure optimal legibility. Make sure it is sufficiently visible on the packaging or product label. Preferably place it on the main face of the packaging so that it is easily spotted by consumers.

Colours and permitted variations: The Triman logo uses specific colours that must be respected to ensure it is recognised. Make sure the colours of the logo are neither altered nor modified. Maintain the integrity of the logo's original hues and shades to preserve its visual identity.

Maximise the impact of the Triman logo: good practice

To make full use of the Triman logo and optimise its impact, it is essential to adopt good practice. Here are a few examples:

Communicate actively about your commitment: use the Triman logo proactively in your communication campaigns and on your online platforms. Highlight your commitment to selective sorting and responsible waste management. This proactive communication strengthens the association between your company and environmentally friendly practices.

Educate your customers: Inform your customers about the meaning of the Triman logo and the benefits of selective sorting. Explain how they can actively take part by sorting their waste correctly and using the appropriate collection points.

Encourage active participation: Set up awareness initiatives to encourage your customers to get involved in selective sorting. Organise awareness campaigns, events or reward programmes that motivate consumers to sort their waste correctly. Show them that their individual contribution counts and can make a significant difference to the environment.

Other main recycling logos

Besides the Triman logo, there are other symbols and logos associated with recycling and environmental protection. Here are a few:

The Mobius logo (or looping arrows symbol): representing recycling in general, it indicates that the product is recyclable or made from recycled materials. It is often used for paper, cardboard, plastic and glass packaging.

The Möbius loop logo with a percentage: this logo indicates the proportion of recycled materials contained in the product. It lets consumers know the extent to which a product contributes to waste reduction and the use of recycled resources.

The Green Dot logo: this symbol, showing two arrows forming a circle, does not mean that the packaging is recyclable, but that a financial contribution has been paid to a recycling organisation.

It is important to understand these different symbols and logos for clear, accurate communication about your environmental practices. By using them correctly and combining them with the Triman logo, you strengthen your responsible brand image and inform consumers about your commitment to recycling and waste reduction.

What is the short-term future for the Triman logo?

Between European regulation and the free movement of goods

Note that a major issue persists. The European Commission opened infringement proceedings against France on 15 February 2023 over its labelling of waste sorting instructions, mainly concerning the use of the Triman logo. These specific requirements imposed at national level hinder the free movement of goods within the European Union. France now has two months to respond to the Commission's concerns, failing which legal action could be taken. The European Commission may then issue a reasoned opinion against it, requiring France to comply with European Union law within a specified period. In the event of continued non-compliance, the Commission may then refer the matter to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), which will give a decision on the case. To date, France has not yet responded to the concerns raised by the European Commission in the ongoing infringement proceedings.

At Covr, you will find a large selection of products such as paper cups bearing the Triman logo, available in various sizes to suit your needs. Take advantage of our promotions to buy eco-responsible equipment at low prices. Do not hesitate to contact us so that our team of experts can guide you towards the choice best suited to your business.