Recycling systems

A few days ago, I received a sorting guide for my city, Surrey, BC, but unfortunately, I couldn't make much sense of it. For as long as I can remember I have been confused with the recycling system, only placing items I "thought" were recyclable based on what I knew. You'd think after living for 20+ years I would know exactly, but no, I do not (yeah, not great). So when the guide came I thought I could finally rely on this resource, but it's as confused as I ever was.

The guide displays a variety of items that can be recycled on the sheet. This would work...if we only had these few items. My question is why not utilize the existing numbers on the plastic vessels? How are we, the consumers supposed to remember exactly which item is recyclable and not recyclable? The structure is already identified and created, just waiting to be used, so why are we creating new systems that is requires more effort?

Then there is the issue of foreign plastics that come from other countries which do not use the number labels. What do we do with those? As you can see I have many questions yet to be explored.

Another issue I came across is the QR code. I was ready to download the app only to come across a screen that told me the app was designed for an older android version. It is disappointing to see that the product is clearly not ready. (image below)

There was also minimum effort put into accessibility considerations.

"This notice contains information that affects you. Please have someone translate it for you."

Although translated into different languages it doesn't exactly translate to accessibility friendly. It's more of a disguise, an after thought, and the design shows.