Maya Ellison
With the climate crisis ongoing, many people are making a conscious effort to recycle. However, not all plastics are created equal, and some are not recyclable with household recycling collections or at local recycling drop-offs. For example, black plastic takeout containers are not recyclable because optical sorters at facilities cannot see them on the conveyor belts. Plastic bags are also not recyclable because they are made from a different type of plastic that requires a different recycling process and can harm recycling equipment. However, grocery stores often accept plastic bags for specialised recycling. Plastic storage containers also cannot be put in household recycling bins due to their size and the fact that kerbside recycling services are not set up to take them. Instead, recycling programmes prefer items like plastic water bottles, butter tubs, and shampoo bottles. That said, some brands do make their products from recyclable plastic, and these can be placed in recycling bins.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recyclability | Clear plastic containers are recyclable, but black plastic containers are not. |
| Recycling Process | Clear plastic containers can be recycled by placing them in council-provided recycling bins, or by taking them to a local recycling centre. |
| Accepted Plastics | Most recyclers accept plastics #1 and #2, which include materials like PET, HDPE, and LDPE. |
| Non-Accepted Plastics | Non-recyclable plastics include PVC, polystyrene, and plastic bags. |
| Reuse Options | Before recycling, plastic containers can be reused for storage or donated to charity shops, schools, or care homes if they are in good condition. |
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What You'll Learn
Check for the recycling symbol
When it comes to recycling plastic containers, it's important to remember that not all plastics are created equal. Some types of plastic are more readily recyclable than others, and it's crucial to check whether your specific container is accepted by your local recycling program. One of the first things to look for is the recycling symbol, which will help you identify if your clear plastic container can be recycled.
The universal recycling symbol, which indicates that an item is recyclable, consists of three arrows in the shape of a triangle. This symbol is often embossed on plastic containers and lids. Inside the triangle, you will usually find a number. The number indicates the type of resin used to produce the plastic. While the presence of the symbol is a good indicator, it's also important to check the number inside. Generally, plastics with the numbers 1 or 2 are the most commonly accepted by recyclers. These numbers correspond to specific types of plastic resins, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and HDPE (high-density polyethylene).
It's worth noting that different recycling facilities collect different types of plastics, so it's always a good idea to check with your local recycling center to know exactly which plastics they accept. This information can usually be found on their website or by contacting them directly. Additionally, some brands of clear plastic containers may provide information on their websites regarding the recyclability of their products. They may specify whether their containers can be placed in recycling bins or require alternative recycling methods.
While checking for the recycling symbol and the associated number is a crucial step, it's also important to consider other factors, such as the size and condition of the container. Large containers, for example, may not fit in your kerbside recycling bin, and you may need to explore other recycling options. Furthermore, it's important to ensure that your containers are clean and empty before placing them in the recycling bin, as contamination can hinder the recycling process.
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Location-specific guidelines
The recyclability of clear plastic containers varies depending on location. Here are some location-specific guidelines:
United States
In the United States, the recyclability of clear plastic containers can vary by state and even by community. For example, in Michigan, plastic products with numbers 1 or 2, such as plastic water bottles and milk jugs, are widely accepted in recycling programs. However, products with numbers 3-7 may only be recyclable in select communities within the state. It is important for individuals to check with their local recycling guidelines, as some communities may identify recyclable plastics by product rather than by number. Additionally, some materials, like plastic bags and flexible packaging, are generally not recyclable through curbside programs and may require special drop-off programs or mail-in recycling options.
California
California has passed a plastics recycling law, indicating a commitment to improving plastic recycling within the state. However, specific guidelines and accepted materials may vary by city or municipality.
Massachusetts
The Town of Tyngsborough in Massachusetts is known for its comprehensive recycling program. The town provides residents with up-to-date information on recycling, including a Recyclopedia and Facebook discussions. While specific guidelines may vary, the town's efforts emphasize the importance of staying informed about local recycling practices.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the How2Recycle label, created by the Sustainable Packaging Coalition and GreenBlue, provides clear instructions on packaging recyclability. This label is found on a variety of products and helps consumers understand how to recycle different materials. However, the actual recycling process may vary depending on the local material recovery facility (MRF). MRFs can be run by municipalities, private companies, or small operations, each with different capabilities and processes.
Australia
In Australia, clear plastic containers are generally recyclable, but it is important to check with local council guidelines for specific instructions. Each council may have slightly different rules regarding the types of plastic accepted and the preparation required, such as rinsing containers or removing labels.
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Plastic types
Plastic is classified into seven categories according to Resin Identification Codes (RIC). These categories are differentiated by the temperature at which the material has been heated, and their numerical classification (#1–#7) only informs you of the type of plastic. Here is a breakdown of the seven types of plastic:
#1 PET
This plastic is mostly found in water bottles and has the highest recycling value. It can be recycled into fashion items such as polar fleece clothes, backpacks, and carpets. It can also be recycled into new bottles.
#2 HDPE
HDPE is one of the easiest plastic polymers to recycle and is accepted at most recycling centres worldwide. It can be transparent or pigmented (coloured). The primary markets for recycled natural HDPE include non-food application bottles, such as detergent, motor oil, and household cleaners.
#3 PVC
Most experts recommend staying away from PVC, which is often found in pipes.
#4 PP
PP, or polypropylene, is one of the most popular plastic packaging materials in the world. However, only around 1-3% is recycled in the US, with most ending up in landfills. Recycled PP is usually included in products such as plastic lumber, park benches, auto parts, and speed bumps.
#5
Tubs are usually marked with a #5 inside a triangle and are made with a mix of plastic types, which can make it difficult for recyclers to process.
#6 PS
PS, or Styrofoam, is often used as food and drink containers. It is recommended to stay away from this type of plastic.
#7 OTHER
This is the catch-all category, including non-recyclables and corn-based plastics (PLA).
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Reuse containers
Clear plastic containers are generally recyclable, but it's important to check the bottom of the container for the recycling symbol and a number. Most recycling collectors accept plastics #1 and #2. However, black plastic containers are not recyclable as optical sorters at recycling facilities cannot detect them on the conveyor belts.
If you're looking to reuse your clear plastic containers, there are several ways to do so. Before recycling, consider if there are ways you can utilise your storage box around the house. For example, you could use them to store garden and woodwork supplies in your garage or shed, leads and toys for your pets, or muddy shoes in a container under the stairs. You could also keep one in the boot of your car for supplies if you go on day trips. If your recycling bins are often overloaded during the week, a larger storage box can be useful for holding other recyclable materials that don't fit in your kerbside bins. Once it's full, take it to your local recycling centre.
If your plastic containers are still in good condition but you no longer need them, you could donate them to a local charity shop, school, nursery, day centre, or care home. Alternatively, you could opt to purchase plastic containers made from recycled materials, reducing your carbon footprint and helping the environment.
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Recycle alternatives
Clear plastic containers are sometimes recyclable, but this depends on the guidelines in your location. It's important to check the specific guidelines of the entity that collects your recycling.
- Find an alternative recycling skip. There are usually several alternative places to dispose of your recycling, other than your kerbside recycling service.
- Contact your local waste management agency. You can usually find your local recycling coordinator online, through the council, or in the yellow pages.
- Take them to a local charity shop if they are still in good condition.
- Reuse them in your home for storage.
- Use them to store items in your garage or shed, or to store muddy shoes or leads and toys for pets.
- Keep one in the boot of your car for supplies if you go on day trips.
- Use them to hold other recyclable materials that can't fit in your kerbside bins. Once the larger container is full, take it to your local recycling skip.
- Glass: Glass is recyclable, inexpensive, and can be upcycled into food storage containers.
- Metal: Tough and easy to clean, stainless steel options for food and beverage storage have become more popular in recent years.
- Natural cloth: Sustainable clothing made from organic cotton, wool, hemp, or bamboo won't shed plastic fibers when washed.
- Wood: Wood from sustainably-managed forests can replace plastic in household items like cleaning brushes, kitchen utensils, and cutting boards.
- Pottery and ceramics: These materials are stable and waterproof, making them good for food storage and tableware.
- Paper: Paper is better than plastic but can't be recycled infinitely, as each time it's reused, the fibers get shorter.
- Bioplastics: These are biodegradable or compostable plastics made from natural substances. However, most require commercial composting facilities and may contain significant amounts of conventional plastic.
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Frequently asked questions
No, not all clear plastic containers are recyclable. It depends on the type of plastic the container is made of. Most recyclers accept plastics #1 and #2, which can be identified by the number inside the triangular recycling symbol.
Check for the universal recycling symbol, which consists of three arrows in the shape of a triangle with a number inside. If the number is 1 or 2, the container can be recycled.
Clear plastic containers such as water bottles, soda bottles, milk jugs, detergent containers, oil bottles, yogurt cups, and fruit cups are generally recyclable.
If the clear plastic containers are in good condition, they can be donated to local charity shops, schools, nurseries, day centres, or care homes. They can also be reused at home for storage or to store items during day trips and outings.
