The “recycling” Symbol
The recycle arrows symbol we see on plastic containers and products does not mean the product is good to be recyclable. The little number inside the triangle is there to help us identify the type of plastic. By understanding the number classifications, we can then determine the appropriate disposal route for our plastic products.
However, if possible, we hope to recycle as much plastic as possible.
Symbol 1: PETG / PETE
Symbol 1 with the acronym PETE / PETG plastic is polyethylene terephthalate. It is commonly used for soft drink bottles, mineral water containers, and fruit juice containers, and cooking oil containers, etc.. The plastic is easily recyclable so it’s often part of curbside recycling programs. It can be reused to make containers, carpet, and furniture.
Symbol 2: HDPE
Symbol 2 with the acronym HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene. This is one of the most commonly used plastics in the United States. It is used for a number of different purposes but is widely considered the plastic of choice for containers for items like cleaning agents, milk, detergents, and washing soap thanks to its low weight and high strength.
HDPE wastes can be easily recycled into pipes, oil bottles, pens, and detergent bottles. It is commonly accepted by curbside recycling.
Symbol 3: PVC or Vinyl
Plastic material symbol 3 with the letter “V” represents PVC plastic or polyvinyl chloride. You may come across this plastic in bubble foils, and trays for sweets and fruit. Additionally, expanded PVC foam board is used for a wide variety of commercial applications. Thanks to its lightweight and rigid properties, PVC plastic can be easily stamped, sawed, punched, nailed, riveted, or bonded using PVC adhesive.
PVC is rarely recycled and not usually part of a curbside recycling program. But it can be recycled for speed bumps, roadway gutters, and cables.
Symbol 4: LDPE
plastic Symbol 4 with the letter LDPE stands for low-density polyethylene. This plastic comes in the form of shopping bags, plastic bags, highly-resistant sacks, and crushed bottles.
This type of plastic is not usually recycled, but it can be converted into floor tiles and shipping envelopes.
but with proper recycling, recycled LDPE can be used to make plastic bags and shoppers again.
Symbol 5: PP
PP, or polypropylene plastic, , is appropriately marked by the number five symbol. Due to its durability, strength, and low weight, this plastic is utilized in furniture, luggage, toys, and the lining and external borders of cars. This is one of the safer types of plastic making it ideal for ketchup bottles and medicine bottles. It is also increasingly being accepted in curbside recycling programs.
Symbol 6: Styrene, or PS
Styrene plastic, PS, also known as polystyrene, is marked with symbol 6. This plastic is commonly used in toys, hard packing, refrigerator trays, cosmetic bags, costume jewelry, CD cases, and vending cups. Although not accepted in many curbside recycling programs, it can be recycled to make egg cartons, take-out containers, and rulers.
Symbol 7: Other
Symbol 7 including the word “OTHER” stands for “other plastics,” which include, but are not limited to, acrylic plastic, polycarbonate plastic, polylactic fibers, nylon, tpu, and fiberglass. Not every plastic can be recycled. However, both acrylic, tpu and polycarbonate can be recycled and can be repurposed for future projects. Since they are both thermoplastics, they can be reheated without a loss in quality. For symbol 7 plastics, be sure to confirm with your local recycling program.
Final Thoughts of Bestepack
Whether you’re working with acrylic plastic or polypropylene, being mindful of the small numbers within the recycling symbol can help you better understand what type of plastic you are using and if it is recyclable at the receptacle. In the end, separating plastics accordingly helps waste management professionals ensure that the right materials end up in the right place.
A good classification of plastic can help and encourage more producers to use recycled materials.