On April 4, CalRecycle published its final material characterization study (Study) pursuant to SB 343.  Under SB 343, use of the chasing arrows symbol or other indications of recyclability on products or packaging that do not meet certain criteria are deemed deceptive or misleading claims. 

The Study addresses material types and forms that routinely becomes feedstock used in the production of new products or packaging.  However, as the Study recognizes, “SB 343 neither authorizes nor directs CalRecycle to determine or report on the recyclability of particular products and packaging or the appropriate use of the chasing arrows or other indicators of recyclability,” and the Study does not address those issues.

Significantly, the Study also triggers SB 343’s 18-month grace period and compliance deadline.  SB 343’s restrictions on the use of the chasing arrows symbol and other indications of recyclability will apply to products and packaging manufactured 18 months after the April 4 publication of the Study – namely, to products and packaging manufactured after Sunday, October 4, 2026.  

To ensure that they have sufficient time to make any changes to their products and packaging, if they have not done so already, companies should begin evaluating whether their use of the chasing arrows symbol or other indications of recyclability on their products or packaging comply with SB 343. 

CalRecycle’s final Study can be found here, and more information on SB 343 can be found on CalRecycle’s website here.