How to Sign "Recycle"

To sign "recycle," form both hands into "R" handshapes by crossing your index and middle fingers. Hold your hands in front of your chest and move them in a continuous, alternating circular motion, tumbling one hand over the other. This circular movement visually mimics the universal recycling symbol.

Examples Using "Recycle" in a Sentence

1

Please recycle those plastic bottles.

Sign "please," point to the bottles to establish what you are talking about, and then use the tumbling "R" handshapes to sign "recycle."

2

Our city recycles paper and glass.

Sign "our city," then perform the "recycle" sign using the circular "R" handshapes, followed by the signs for "paper" and "glass."

3

Is this cardboard box recyclable?

Point to the box, raise your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly forward to indicate a yes/no question, and sign "recycle."

How to Sign "Recycle"
To sign "recycle," form both hands into "R" handshapes by crossing your index and middle fingers. Hold your hands in front of your chest and move them in a continuous, alternating circular motion, tumbling one hand over the other. This circular movement visually mimics the universal recycling symbol.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is both initialized and iconic. It uses the "R" handshape for the English word "recycle," while the continuous, tumbling circular motion visually mimics the universal recycling symbol (the Mobius loop) and the concept of an ongoing cycle.
Signing Tips
Keep the circular motion smooth and continuous, similar to how a wheel turns. Ensure your "R" handshapes are clearly formed with the index and middle fingers crossed tightly. The movement should be relaxed and centered in front of your chest, not too wide or exaggerated.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using uncrossed index fingers instead of the "R" handshape, which can make the sign look like "sign" or "rolling." Another mistake is making the circles too large or moving the hands away from the body instead of tumbling them in place.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Recycle" in a Sentence
1

Please recycle those plastic bottles.

Sign "please," point to the bottles to establish what you are talking about, and then use the tumbling "R" handshapes to sign "recycle."

2

Our city recycles paper and glass.

Sign "our city," then perform the "recycle" sign using the circular "R" handshapes, followed by the signs for "paper" and "glass."

3

Is this cardboard box recyclable?

Point to the box, raise your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly forward to indicate a yes/no question, and sign "recycle."

Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign also mean 'reuse'?

While the concepts are closely related, 'reuse' is typically signed differently, often by signing 'use' and then 'again.' The tumbling 'R' hands specifically mean 'recycle.'

How many times should I circle my hands?

Usually, two or three complete tumbling rotations are sufficient to convey the meaning clearly. You don't need to keep circling your hands indefinitely.

Can I sign this with just one hand?

No, 'recycle' is a two-handed sign. Using both hands is necessary to create the continuous, circular tumbling motion that represents the recycling loop.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!