the invention provides a method for labeling a glass , plastic or metal container or surface with a polymeric label by means of a water based adhesive composition by the following steps : selecting a polymeric label having a density of less than 0 . 9 ; applying a water based adhesive to said polymeric label to form a fastenable polymeric label ; fastening said fastenable polymeric label to a glass , plastic or metal container or surface ; and allowing said polymeric label to dry on said glass , plastic or metal surface or container .