what are recycle codes

7 Plastic Recycling Codes that You Should Know.

• Plastic #1: PETE or PET. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is found in the packaging of several products that we use in our day to day lives. The most ...
• Plastic #2: HDPE.
• Plastic #3: PVC or V.
• Plastic #4: LDPE.
• Plastic #5: PP.

Full Answer

What do the different plastic recycle codes mean?

The chasing arrows, to most of us, mean recycling. So, the plastic codes make it seem like the symbols mean that the plastic is “recyclable.” However, depending on your location, some plastics may not be accepted into the waste management system. This is particularly true of plastics with a 3 or 6 code.

Do you understand the Recycling codes?

The recycling codes — a.k.a. those little numbers inside the triangle made with arrows most often found on the bottom of a plastic product — designate which plastics are more toxic and which are safer. This is the thin, clear plastic used for bottled water, soda, juices, condiments, etc.

Can you recycle codes 5?

They take #5 plastic and recycle it into new products like toothbrushes, dishware and food storage containers. They used to accept #5 plastic in drop-off bins at Whole Foods but this has been discontinued (see my update above). They are were allowing you to mail your #5 plastics to Preserve, and you would have to pay the shipping cost yourself. They were also taking #5 plastic bottle caps and #5 prescription bottles.

What do the recycling numbers mean?

recycling numbers are a uniform way of classifying the different types of plastic and it aids recyclers in the sorting process. Note that sometimes other numbers are found on the bottom of plastic containers, but only numbers inside the recycling symbol are valid for recycling purposes. The recycling code consists of the numbers 1 through 7.

What do the recycle code numbers mean?

Number 1 - PETE - Poly(ethylene terephthalate): Soda bottles, water bottles, cooking oil bottles, and medicine containers. Number 2 - HDPE - High-density Polyethylene: Containers for: laundry/dish detergent, milk, shampoo, conditioner, also various toys, and grocery bags. Number 3 - V - Poly(vinyl chloride):

What numbers Cannot be recycled?

According to environmental research blog Greenopedia, plastics labeled 1 and 2 can be recycled at almost every recycling center, but numbers 3, 6 and 7 usually cannot be recycled and can go directly in the trash.

What code is used for recyclable waste?

Number 2 Code - High Density Polyethylene, HDPE Description - HDPE is a readily recyclable, versatile plastic commonly used for packaging. It is usually white or coloured and poses a low risk of leaching. Recycling Method - Collected through most curbside recycling programs.

What are the 7 categories of recycling?

Let's break them down:Plastic Recycling Symbol #1: PET or PETE. ... Plastic Recycling Symbol #2: HDPE. ... Plastic Recycling Symbol #3: PVC or V. ... Plastic Recycling Symbol #4: LDPE. ... Plastic Recycling Symbols #5: PP. ... Plastic Recycling Symbol #6: PS. ... Plastic Recycling Symbol #7: Miscellaneous.

Can plastic 5 be recycled?

5: PP (Polypropylene) It's also made into straws, rope, carpet and bottle caps. PP products CAN SOMETIMES be recycled.

Which type of plastic Cannot be recycled?

The difference in the recyclability of plastic types can be down to how they are made; thermoset plastics contain polymers that form irreversible chemical bonds and cannot be recycled, whereas thermoplastics can be re-melted and re-molded.

What symbol means recyclable?

The three green arrows going in a triangle simply means that it's capable of being recycled. Sometimes, the symbol will come with a percentage in the middle, signifying how much of it has been made from recycled materials. Three arrows in a triangle means that the item is capable of being recycled.

What does recycle 4 mean?

Low Density PolyethylenePlastic #4: LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) – Plastic #4 is used to make shopping bags, clothing, carpet, frozen food, bread bags and some food wraps. It is uncommon for this plastic to be collected in kerbside recycling programs. It is commonly recycled into compost bins, panelling, garbage bags and floor tiles.

How do you know if plastic is recyclable?

Recyclable plastic usually comes with a little recycling symbol printed on the bottom and depending on the product, there might be a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 stamped in the center of the symbol. It's easy to miss, but this tiny digit is actually pretty important, because it's an ID.

Is a number 1 recyclable?

Number 1, PETE plastics are recyclable and accepted by most curbside recycling programs. They should be rinsed and dried before collection. After being recycled, PET is turned into flakes which can be used for spinning carpet fiber, fiberfill, or tote bags.

What are #1 through #7 plastics?

Plastics by the Numbers#1 - PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) ... #2 - HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) ... #3 – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) ... #4 – LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) ... #5 – PP (Polypropylene) ... #6 – PS (Polystyrene) ... #7 – Other (BPA, Polycarbonate and LEXAN)

Which plastic numbers are safe?

To make a long story short: plastic recycling numbers 2, 4 and 5 are the safest. Whereas plastic numbers 1, 3, 6 and 7 must be avoided. But it does not indicate that you can fearlessly use safer plastic. All plastic products can leach toxic chemicals when heated or damaged.

What does 0 mean in recycling?

Some bioplastics will also say they are #0 plastic, and these are commercially compostable as well.

Can you recycle plastic 5 in Australia?

Ecobins are made from a class 5 plastic and are fully recyclable at the end of their life. These materials can be placed in your local council kerbside recycling bin.

What are #1 through #7 plastics?

Plastics by the Numbers#1 - PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) ... #2 - HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) ... #3 – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) ... #4 – LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) ... #5 – PP (Polypropylene) ... #6 – PS (Polystyrene) ... #7 – Other (BPA, Polycarbonate and LEXAN)

Can plastic 5 Be recycled UK?

What do the numbers mean on plastic packaging, which types can be recycled? Some manufacturers label plastic packaging with numbers such as these: In Oxford generally types 1, 2, 4 and 5 can be recycled; however this can vary so please follow the guidance on the front of this leaflet and not these symbols.

Why should we recycle plastic?

It would be great if plastics just had a simple code for “ yes, recycle this ” or “ no, trash it “. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Here’s why: 1 It is easier to recycle certain types of plastic and not easy to recycle others. 2 Recycling is a business and there is simply more of a demand for certain types of recycled plastics than for others. As such, recycling facilities have a stronger incentive to recycle the plastics they can sell.

What happens if you throw non recyclable plastic in the blue bin?

The problem is that if we throw non-recyclable plastics into the blue bin, they can contaminate the entire recycling stream. Manufacturers who buy recycled plastic will pay less for contaminated plastics, or they won’t buy them at all. Just like any other business, recycling facilities operate on sales revenue.

What is the most widely accepted recycling code?

Recycling codes #1 (hard) and #2 are the most widely accepted. Recycling centers have the equipment to process these plastics, and there are plenty of manufacturers willing to buy them.

What are the codes for plastic?

Give your local facility a call to see if they accept plastic codes #1 (soft), #4, and #5. They are becoming more commonly accepted as technology improves and as the market for these plastics grows.

Is it easier to recycle plastic?

It is easier to recycle certain types of plastic and not easy to recycle others . Recycling is a business and there is simply more of a demand for certain types of recycled plastics than for others. As such, recycling facilities have a stronger incentive to recycle the plastics they can sell. So overall, plastics that are easy to recycle ...

Can plastic be recycled?

If the plastic does not have a code, there is little way of knowing whether it can be recycled for sure. In this case, it is usually safest to throw the plastic in the trash to avoid contaminating the recycling stream.

Is plastic easy to recycle?

So overall, plastics that are easy to recycle and attract buyers are more readily accepted by recycling facilities. Plastics that are difficult to sell or to recycle are less commonly accepted.

How to deal with plastic waste?

Replace single-use plastic with reusable bags; use glass or steel containers for microwaving; carry reusable containers for food. Recycling should be the last resort when it comes to dealing with plastic.

Why is PVC the least recyclable material?

PVC is the least recyclable material due to high chlorine content and harmful additives in it .

Why is HDPE plastic used in packaging?

Because of its stiffness and good chemical resistance, HDPE plastic is widely used in packaging household products with a shorter shelf life (like milk jugs). It does not leach into food and is weather-resistant too.

Why doesn't curbside recycling accept PS?

Most of the curbside recycling programs don’t accept PS mainly because it is 95% air. It is not cost-effective, and the energy used in recycling is more than the energy saved. Moreover, the material easily contaminates with food or drinks.

Why is plastic contaminated?

The reason behind the drastic difference is contamination. Plastic is easily contaminated when placed in the wrong bin or when non-recyclable materials (like plastic straws, bags, and takeout containers) are mixed in the right bin. Consequently, the entire recyclable batch loses value and gets discarded. On the upside, the power to improve the rate ...

What does the number 1-7 mean in a triangle?

The number (1-7) in the triangle holds the clue to the type of plastic you’re dealing with. Each number identifies the composition and recyclable characteristics of the respective plastic packaging material. Not all plastic is recyclable. With the help of resin codes, you can easily segregate recyclable materials.

What is PVC used for?

The term “PVC” might ring a bell with you (Hint: PVC pipes). Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC is often used for rigid applications like pipes, window frames, and siding. It is grease, oil, and chemical resistant. Note that PVC is potentially harmful and should never be used for cooking or food storage.

What are plastic bags made of?

If you are looking to recycle plastic bags you can use our recycling locator to find a location near you. Most plastic bags are made of #2 or #4 plastic. In this video, Jason Poel Smith shows you how to fuse old plastic bags together into thick sheets you can use in your projects. Most…

What is the BPA in number 7 plastic?

Number 7 plastics are wont to make baby bottles, sippy cups, device bottles and car parts. BPA is found in polycarbonate plastic food containers often marked on rock bottom with the letters “PC” by the recycling label #7.

What does a 3 in plastic mean?

a 3 indicates that the bottle has been made up of PVC , a five means it’s been made from polypropylene, two materials that aren’t accepted by most public recycling centers.

What is compostable plastic made of?

A new generation of compostable plastics, made up of bio-based polymers like corn starch, is being developed to exchange polycarbonates. These also are included in category #7, which may be confusing to the buyer . These compostable plastics have the initials “PLA” on rock bottom near the recycling symbol.

Why is PVC considered a poison?

PVC is dubbed the “poison plastic” because it contains numerous toxins which it can leach throughout its entire life cycle. most products using PVC require virgin material for his or her construction; but 1% of PVC material is recycled. Products made using PVC plastic aren’t recyclable.

How long does it take for a mutant bacterial enzyme to recycle stout?

A mutant bacterial enzyme can mangle down cosmetic for stout recycling in only hours

What is PET used for?

PET is one among the foremost commonly used plastics in consumer products, and is found in most water and pop bottles, and a few packaging. it’s intended for single use applications; repeated use increases the danger of leaching and bacterial growth.

What is a Plastic Resin Code?

Resin codes were developed in 1988, by The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI), to help standardize the materials used in different plastic products. Plastic products that are labeled with a resin identification code can be more easily identified and recycled or disposed of accordingly.

Why is polystyrene so hard to recycle?

Polystyrene is difficult to recycle because it is lightweight but does not break down easily. Recycling is calculated by weight and because polystyrene is recycled in such large quantities, but with so little weight, it is not profitable for recycling companies to accept. Recycling polystyrene uses more energy and costs more than the benefits received from recycling.

What is the plastic number 1?

Plastic Number 1 - PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Polyethylene terephthalate can be abbreviated as PET or PETE. PET is one of the most commonly used plastics in consumer foodservice products. PET plastics are meant for single use. Plastic number 1 has a low risk of leaching and is considered safe.

What is the number 4 in plastic?

Plastic Number 4 - LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) Low-density polyethylene is abbreviated as LDPE. Low-density polyethylene is safe to be reused. It is very flexible, durable, and lightweight making it a common plastic to be used in food film and squeezable bottles.

What is leaching in food?

Did You Know: What is leaching? Leaching is the transfer or leaking of chemicals from the plastic to the food or beverage it holds .

How many resin codes are there?

Resin codes are contained by three arrows in a triangle formation. There are seven res in codes, 1-7, to identify plastic products. Each number represents a different type of plastic and how/where it can be disposed.

Do you rinse PP plastic before recycling?

Number 5, PP plastics are becoming increasingly accepted by curbside recycling programs. They should be rinsed and dried before collection.

What do the Codes Mean?

Different types of plastics are made out of different types of resins. So, the codes are actually Resin Identification Codes. The numbered code symbols usually, but not always, are shown with an abbreviation beneath. Here are the codes:

What is the symbol on plastic packaging?

Therefore, most plastic packaging, including bottles and food packets, have a symbol on them that identifies the type of plastic used. This symbol is a number from one to seven enclosed in a “chasing arrows” recycle symbol. See: Plastic-Free Products for the Home. The symbols have proven to be confusing to consumers.

How to identify plastics?

Now that curbside recycling or drop-off recycling centers are common, it is much more difficult to identify particular types of plastic. Plastic resin identification coding was developed to assist in this identification. Therefore, most plastic packaging, including bottles and food packets, have a symbol on them that identifies the type of plastic used. This symbol is a number from one to seven enclosed in a “chasing arrows” recycle symbol.

What is PS in plastic?

PS (polysterne) 7. Other Plastics (wide variety including polycarbonate*; or a mixture of resins) *Polycarbonates used in reusable water bottles and other food and beverage applications have caused controversy due to BPA, which may leach into food or liquids.

What does the chasing arrow mean in plastic?

The symbols have proven to be confusing to consumers. The chasing arrows, to most of us, mean recycling. So, the plastic codes make it seem like the symbols mean that the plastic is “recyclable.”. However, depending on your location, some plastics may not be accepted into the waste management system. This is particularly true of plastics ...

What is the first number in a plastic bottle?

1PETE. The first code, number 1 , or PETE (usually expressed as PET) is a very common type of plastic. It is used to make plastic bottles for soft drinks, water, juice, sports drinks, mouthwash, catsup, and salad dressing, as well as: plastic jars for peanut butter, jelly, jam, and pickles. plastic films.

How many PET bottles are thrown away every year?

Every year, thousands of PET bottles are thrown away. Those of us who recycle the bottles tend to assume that they are turned into other bottles. This is usually not the case.

What is LDPE in recycling?

Consumers most often interact with LDPE in the form of plastic bags found at grocery stores, as well as in squeeze bottles and bread bags. It is picked up curbside more commonly than it once was, but you might need to contact your recycling program to make sure they will take it. Currently, the EPA states that less than 6 percent of LDPE is recycled every year. Once it is recycled, LDPE is commonly seen as garbage bin bags.

What is HDPE #2?

High-density polyethylene (PEHD or HDPE) is labeled as #2. HDPE is a widely used plastic due to its strength and resistance to many solvents. We are most accustomed to seeing #2 plastic in the form of milk jugs. Yet, its uses range widely from fuel tanks to hula-hoops. The range of uses for recycled HDPE is just as broad. As with our first plastic, #2 is picked up by most curbside recycling programs. It is also becoming more prevalent as a plastic that can be recycled into 3-D printing material – a process that is being shown to use much less energy than traditional recycling practices.

What is PET used for?

We will begin our journey with a plastic everyone is likely to be familiar with: PET or PETE, which stands for polyethylene terephthalate. It is a commonly used plastic most often found as plastic bottles. Due to PET’s semi-porous nature and low burning point, it is considered as a single-use plastic for food containers. Instead, it is usually chopped up and turned into commodities such as carpet. It is widely picked up at curbside recycling everywhere.

How much LDPE is recycled?

Currently, the EPA states that less than 6 percent of LDPE is recycled every year. Once it is recycled, LDPE is commonly seen as garbage bin bags.

Why is polypropylene used in medical devices?

Polypropylene is next on our list and a valuable plastic due to its ability to resist heat. It is often used in a medical setting for beakers, containers and other important medical devices. It is also found in food containers, especially those that package hot items.

What is the most controversial plastic?

Polystyrene (PS) is most commonly known as Styrofoam. It is one of the most controversial plastics on the list due to its long persistence in the environment. Outside of Germany, where laws require collection, Styrofoam is rarely picked up at curbside programs. Due to its lightweight and abundant use, it is one of the most commonly seen forms of waste found on our beaches and in our streams, and rivers.

How many times can PVC be recycled?

PVC is nonetheless recycled and is most commonly reused in a commercial setting. An interesting fact of PVC is that it can be recycled approximately seven times before degrading and can be used for well over 100 years.

What are the rules for recycling plastic?

So what does all of that mean for you? A few things: 1 Types 1 and 2 plastics may be tossed into standard recycling bins. 2 Other plastic types may not be permitted in your bin, depending on your municipality’s guidelines. 3 Hard-to-recycle plastics – including Styrofoam, shrink wrap and manufacturing scrap – require specialized handling.

What is plastic wrapping made of?

A lot of plastic wrappings are made of LDPE plastic. It’s also used to make grocery bags and the bags that hold newspapers, sliced bread loaves and fresh produce, among other things.

What is PET used for?

PET or PETE is what’s used to make bottles for soda, water and other drinks. It’s also used to make cooking oil containers, plastic peanut butter jars and containers for other popular food items. PET/PETE products CAN be recycled.

What is the most complicated material to recycle?

At Miller Recycling, plastic is one of the materials we receive and process. It’s also the most complicated material to recycle, in part because consumers don’t know what types can be disposed of and in which ways. A product made of plastic is often stamped with a resin code, which is a number between one and seven inside a small triangle made ...

What is the resin code on a plastic?

A product made of plastic is often stamped with a resin code, which is a number between one and seven inside a small triangle made of arrows. The presence of a resin code doesn’t necessarily mean that the product can be recycled. It’s the number inside the triangle that counts, because each number corresponds to a different type of plastic.

What is styrofoam made of?

Styrofoam products are made out of PS plastic, so it’s commonly used to make disposable coffee cups, packing peanuts, coolers and to-go food containers.

Can you put plastic bags in the recycling bin?

It’s not viable for some plastics recycling companies to take hard-to-process plastic products like Styrofoam. Bags made of type 4 plastic, like produce and grocery bags, also shouldn’t be put into recycling bins because they can get tangled in the equipment at recycling facilities. Grocery stores collect these bags for proper plastics recycling.