recycling symbol
Unicode: 267B
Description
This emoji shows a recycling symbol, which consists of three green arrows chasing each other in a triangular shape, pointing clockwise. It signifies recycling or recycled content.
Group:
Symbols > other-symbol
Status:
unqualified
Emotion:
The emotion associated with this emoji is more functional and informational rather than emotional. It evokes a sense of environmental responsibility, sustainability, and action towards protecting the planet.
Backstory
The universal recycling symbol was designed in 1970 by Gary Anderson, a 23-year-old student, as part of a contest sponsored by the Container Corporation of America. It consists of three arrows, representing reduction, reuse, and recycling. It was officially added to the Unicode standard as U+267B in Unicode 1.1 in 1993, making it one of the earliest environmental symbols available digitally.
Usage Examples
- Promoting sustainability: 'Remember to recycle your plastics! ♻️'
- Indicating recycled materials: 'Made with 100% recycled content ♻️'
- Environmental awareness: 'Go green this Earth Day! 🌎♻️'
- Waste management instructions: 'Please separate your food waste and recyclables 🗑️♻️'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Widely recognized as the universal symbol for recycling, often seen on products, bins, and packaging. It's associated with eco-consciousness and environmentalism.
East Asian culture:
Also recognized as a recycling symbol, often used in conjunction with waste segregation guidelines. Its meaning is consistent with Western interpretations.