Understanding the Different Types of Plastics and Their Recyclability

Plastics are categorized into seven main types based on their chemical composition, identified by the numbers inside the recycling symbol on packaging. Understanding these categories can help determine whether a plastic is recyclable or not, and how to prepare it for proper recycling.

1. Types of Plastics

• #1: PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
  Commonly used for water bottles and soda bottles, PET is one of the most recyclable plastics. It is lightweight and can be recycled into products like new bottles or textiles. PET must be rinsed before recycling to remove any residue.

• #2: HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
  Found in milk jugs, detergent bottles, and some plastic bags, HDPE is durable and widely accepted by recycling centers. It can be recycled into items like plastic lumber, pipes, or new containers. Ensure the plastic is cleaned thoroughly before recycling.

• #3: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
  Often used in pipes, window frames, and certain food packaging, PVC is more difficult to recycle due to its toxic chemical makeup. It is usually considered non-recyclable in most curbside programs.

• #4: LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)
  This plastic is flexible and is commonly found in grocery bags, bread bags, and some food wraps. LDPE is recyclable in some specialized programs but not typically accepted in curbside bins. However, many grocery stores offer collection bins for bag recycling.

• #5: PP (Polypropylene)
  Used for yogurt containers, bottle caps, and straws, PP is strong and lightweight. It’s becoming more recyclable in some areas, but not all facilities accept it yet. Rinse containers thoroughly before recycling.

• #6: PS (Polystyrene or Styrofoam)
  Found in disposable cups, plates, and packaging peanuts, polystyrene is difficult to recycle due to its fragility and the fact that it easily breaks down into smaller particles. Most curbside recycling programs don’t accept it.

• #7: Other (Polycarbonate, BPA, or a mix of plastics)
  Plastics labeled as #7 are a catch-all for various materials, including biodegradable plastics, polycarbonate, and others. These are often non-recyclable or accepted only in specialized facilities.

2. Recyclable vs. Non-Recyclable Plastics

• Recyclable Plastics: Types #1 (PET), #2 (HDPE), and #5 (PP) are commonly recyclable, though local guidelines may vary. These plastics must be cleaned and free from food, oil, or residue to avoid contamination.

• Non-Recyclable Plastics: Types #3 (PVC), #6 (PS), and #7 (Other) are typically non-recyclable in regular curbside programs. These plastics either contain harmful chemicals or require specialized processing facilities that many cities lack.

3. How to Clean Plastics for Recycling

Properly cleaning plastics is critical to ensuring they can be recycled:

• Rinse Thoroughly: Remove food residue or liquids by rinsing plastics under running water. For stubborn food particles, use a sponge or dish soap.
• Remove Labels: Some recycling centers ask you to remove labels, though many modern facilities are equipped to handle them.
• Dry the Items: Allow plastics to dry after rinsing to prevent mold during the recycling process.

4. Reading the Plastic Recycling Codes

The number inside the recycling triangle on plastic items tells you the type of plastic it is made from:

• #1 and #2: Widely accepted in curbside recycling programs.
• #3 through #7: Typically require special recycling programs, or are non-recyclable in standard bins.

Always check your local recycling guidelines, as what is accepted can vary from city to city.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of plastics and their recyclability is crucial to reducing waste and ensuring materials are properly processed. By following simple steps like reading the recycling codes, cleaning your plastics, and knowing what can and can’t be recycled, you can contribute to a more sustainable world. Refilling reusable containers at places like Wonderfill Refillery further reduces the need for single-use plastics, making it even easier to live sustainably!