Did you know that just because plastic items have a recycle symbol doesn’t guarantee they’re recyclable? The number within the ♻️ symbol identifies the type of plastic, which determines if it can be recycled. This can make recycling a challenge. But we have good news! We are changing the way plastic recycling works. Our plastic renewal facility in Ashley, IN, can recycle all different plastic types.
Learn about the plastic types below.
Polyethylene Terephthalate
PET or PETE
Water bottles, soft drinks, mouthwash, salad dressing bottles, peanut butter containers, oil containers, and some ropes. Plastic #1 is usually clear in color, and it is not intended for multiple uses.
Recyclable?
Yes, commonly recycled.
High-density Polyethylene
HDPE
Milk and juice jugs, detergent and household cleaners, cosmetics, bleach containers, toys, crates, buckets, and playground equipment.
Plastic #2 is durable enough to be reused without any harm.
Recyclable?
Yes, commonly recycled.
Polyvinyl Chloride
PVC
Piping, some shampoo and cooking oil bottles, bubble wrap, house siding, shower curtains, and credit cards. Plastic #3 contains chemical additives that can be harmful and should never be burned.
Recyclable?
No, not commonly recycled.
Low-density Polyethylene
LDPE
Bread bags, frozen foods, plastic grocery bags, toothpaste, hot and cold beverage cups, and sandwich bags. Plastic #4, while not commonly recycled, many retailers have now started accepting it.
Recyclable?
No, not commonly recycled.
Polypropylene
PP
Yogurt and cottage cheese containers, ketchup and syrup bottles, medicine bottles, straws, disposable diapers, and potato chip bags. Plastic #5 is often used for food; if your community recycles this plastic, ensure it is rinsed.
Recyclable?
No, not commonly recycled.
Polystyrene
PS
Styrofoam take-out containers, egg cartons, plastic utensils, foam packing peanuts, CD cases, seed trays, and fast-food trays. Plastic #6 is easily breakable, and proper care should be taken when throwing it away.
Recyclable?
No, not commonly recycled.
Miscellaneous Plastics
Sunglasses, eyeglasses, CDs and DVDs, computer cases, 5-gallon water jugs, bulletproof materials, sippy cups, dental sealants, and nylon. Plastic #7 is made up of a wide variety of plastic resins that don’t fit into the previous categories.
Recyclable?
No, not commonly recycled.
Summary:
Always double-check the plastic number and ensure that your community recycles that type before putting it in the bin.
