Seeing a recycling icon with a number on your bottles or containers? Have you wondered what does it mean? Here’s why, the number inside the recycling symbol on plastic items does not mean the item is recyclable. The number only shows what type of plastic the item is made from, numbers from 1 to 7 identifies the plastic material. Not all plastics have these numbered codes, there are thousands of different plastic materials used for different products.
What are these numbers and its meaning?
#1 – Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE or PET)
This is one of the most commonly used plastics for food and beverage containers. It is lightweight yet sturdy, and has good gas and moisture barrier properties. PETE can be recycled into many different products beyond just fibrefill – it also gets made into plastic lumber, geo-textiles, and strapping. Recycling PETE helps reduce the amount going to landfills.
#2 – High-density Polyethylene (HDPE)
A very versatile plastic used for many household items, its strength and chemical resistance make it ideal for bottles that need to withstand pressure and protect contents. One of the most recycled plastics, recycling process is relatively simple – it gets cleaned, melted, and remoulded.
#3 – Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
It is a tough and water-resistant, it doesn’t react with many household chemicals, so it works well for packaging non-food items. However, some have raised concerns over potential toxicity issues with PVC if not disposed of properly. Recycling PVC reduces waste and keeps it out of landfills and incinerators.
#4 – Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE)
It is a flexible, lightweight plastic great for making films and bags. You’ve likely handled LDPE grocery bags countless times. While not as commonly recycled, recycling these bags helps reduce plastic waste significantly. The recycled material gets made into plastic lumber, boxes, containers and new bags.
#5 – Polypropylene (PP)
It is a hard but lightweight plastic that resists heat very well, this makes it ideal for containers that may get hot, like yoghurt cups. PP is gradually becoming more accepted at recyclers as the recycling technologies improve. Recycled PP finds new life as plastic lumber, bins, trays and more.
#6 – Polystyrene (PS/EPS)
You know polystyrene foam when you see it – it’s that white, lightweight foam used for disposable cups, plates, and packaging peanuts. While PS is technically recyclable, it is not accepted in many municipal recycling programs. When recycled properly, it gets turned into insulation, plastic lumber and more durable foam products.
#7 – Other Plastics
This category contains any plastic resins that don’t fit into the other 6 categories. This could include tough plastic like polycarbonate used in electronics cases, or bio-plastics made from renewable resources. Recycling opportunities vary depending on the exact plastic type. Many get turned into plastic lumber or re-manufactured into the same products.
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Conclusion
Understanding the numbered codes for different plastic types is crucial for proper recycling, safe reuse, and making environmentally-conscious choices. The codes provide key information that allows recycling facilities to effectively sort and process various plastics, than sending them to landfills. They also indicate which plastic types may leach chemicals when used for food packaging versus non-food uses. For those looking to repurpose plastic containers, the codes offer insight into properties like heat resistance to ensure the plastic can be safely reused as intended. The codes shed light on the environmental impact of different plastics based on their production methods and biodegradability. Being informed about the meaning behind these simple numbers, consumers can maximise recycling and reuse efforts while minimising potential safety risks and their environmental footprint.
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