Gary Dean Anderson (born 1947) is an American graphic designer and architect. The Universal Recycling Symbol.Today's theme: Circular Design. We're all part of a vast, natural ecosystem.

 

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Circular Design
DESIGN × STORIES
Today's theme: Circular Design. We're all part of a vast, natural ecosystem. Circular design prioritizes resources and minimizes waste and pollution. Explore their beauty and admire the natural cycle.

Gary Dean Anderson (born 1947) is an American graphic designer and architect. He is best known as the designer of the recycling symbol, one of the most readily recognizable logos in the world.

The Universal Recycling Symbol, here rendered with a black outline and green fill. Both filled and outline versions of the symbol are in use.

Outline version

The recycling logo, one of the most iconic symbols of environmentalism today, was created in 1970 by Gary Anderson, a 23-year-old architecture student at the University of Southern California. Anderson entered a design competition hosted by the Container Corporation of America (CCA), which sought a symbol to represent the growing recycling movement in the U.S. As environmental awareness gained momentum, Anderson’s design, inspired by the Mobius strip, used three arrows arranged in a triangle to symbolize the continuous cycle of recycling: collection, processing, and resale of materials.

The simplicity and elegance of Anderson's design made it instantly recognizable and effective. The three arrows form an unbroken loop, representing the perpetual cycle of recycling and the sustainable flow of resources. Each arrow symbolizes a different stage in the recycling process, with the arrows flowing seamlessly into one another, reinforcing the idea of an ongoing, closed-loop system. This minimalist approach ensured the logo was both visually striking and clear in its message of conservation and sustainability.

Since its introduction, the recycling logo has become synonymous with environmentalism, gaining widespread recognition around the world. Over the years, it has been adapted for various purposes and continues to appear on countless products, campaigns, and educational materials. Despite its simplicity, the logo has had a profound impact, serving as a constant reminder of the need for sustainability and conservation. Anderson’s creation remains a powerful symbol, showing how design can shape public consciousness and promote environmental stewardship.