Maya Ellison
Putting the wrong materials in recycling or garbage bins can contaminate an entire collection, causing it to be sent to landfill. It is therefore important to know what can and cannot be recycled and thrown away. Plastic bags and plastic film, for example, should not be put in recycling bins as they can jam equipment, but they can be recycled at some retailers. Different areas have different rules, so it is important to check what applies to your location.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic in the garbage | Flexible plastic packaging, including chip bags, Ziplock bags, bubble wrap, and candy wrappers, can be recycled. |
| Plastic bags and plastic film | Should not be put in recycling bins as they can jam equipment. However, some retailers have collection bins for plastic bags. |
| Plastic container code | Identifies seven thermoplastic resins by a number and an abbreviation. |
| Banned items | If banned items are found in the garbage bin, it may not be collected. |
| Collection | It is important to put the right materials in the bins and boxes. |
| Contamination | If the wrong materials are put in recycling bins, the entire load may have to be sent to landfill. |
| Bulky items | Large bulky items can be picked up curbside for a fee. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic bags and plastic film should not be put in recycling bins
Plastic bags and plastic film should not be placed in recycling bins. Plastic bags are the leading cause of contamination in the recycling stream. They frequently clog the machinery used to process recyclable materials, resulting in operational issues, facility shutdowns, and safety risks for employees. Due to these concerns, recycling facilities may be forced to send all bagged recyclables and loose plastic bags and film to landfills.
Plastic bags and plastic film are typically made from polyethylene, a type of plastic that is stretchy and durable. While this makes them useful for various applications, it also means they can get stuck in recycling equipment. Most recycling facilities are designed to handle plastic bottles and containers, not plastic bags or film.
To properly dispose of plastic bags and plastic film, it is recommended to recycle them at local retailer take-back programs or drop them off at participating grocery and retail stores with dedicated recycling programs. Some companies, like Trex, collect plastic bags and film for recycling into high-performance wood-alternative decking and railing.
It is important to check with your local recycling entity, as guidelines may vary from location to location. When in doubt, it is better to leave plastic bags and film out of the recycling bin to avoid contamination and potential hazards.
To reduce plastic bag usage, it is advisable to opt for reusable or paper bags when purchasing items. If plastic bags are used, try to reuse them multiple times before considering recycling options.
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Plastic packaging should be clean, dry and loose
When it comes to plastic packaging, it is important to ensure that it is clean, dry, and loose before placing it in the recycling bin. This is because recyclables that are clean, empty, and dry are more likely to meet the standards and rules of recycling centers, increasing the likelihood of successful recycling.
Firstly, it is crucial to clean the plastic packaging before placing it in the recycling bin. This means ensuring that all food residue and sticky substances are removed. You can use leftover dishwater or a scrub brush to clean the plastic packaging thoroughly. By doing so, you reduce the risk of contamination and increase the chances of your plastic being recycled.
Secondly, ensure that the plastic packaging is completely dry before recycling. Wet or damp packaging can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria, rendering the material unsuitable for recycling. It can also affect the quality of other dry recyclables in the bin.
Thirdly, keep the plastic packaging loose. This allows for easier sorting and processing at the recycling facility. When plastic packaging is loose, it can be quickly identified, sorted, and processed, increasing the overall recycling rate.
By following these simple steps of keeping plastic packaging clean, dry, and loose, you can help improve recycling rates, reduce landfill waste, and conserve natural resources. It is important to remember that proper recycling practices play a crucial role in protecting the environment and promoting sustainability.
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Plastic waste can contaminate other waste
Plastic waste is a pressing environmental issue, with the rapidly increasing production of disposable plastic products overwhelming the world's ability to deal with them. Plastic waste can contaminate other waste and the environment in several ways.
Firstly, plastic waste can contaminate other waste through improper disposal. When plastic litter is tossed on the ground, it can be easily washed away by rain or carried via storm drains into rivers, lakes, and streams, ultimately polluting aquatic ecosystems. This is particularly prevalent in developing nations with inefficient or non-existent garbage collection systems and in countries lacking the infrastructure to properly manage waste, such as some Southeast Asian nations.
Secondly, plastic waste often ends up in landfills, which can lead to contamination of the surrounding environment. Landfills can release toxic chemicals and pollutants into the soil, groundwater, and air, affecting nearby communities and ecosystems. Incineration of plastic waste, as in the case of "chemical recycling," can also contaminate the air with toxic fumes, posing health risks to residents, including skin rashes and cancer.
Additionally, plastic waste can contaminate other waste streams when it is improperly mixed with recyclable materials. This can render the entire batch of recyclables unrecyclable and result in them being sent to landfills instead.
Finally, plastic waste can contaminate natural habitats and ecosystems, altering them and reducing their ability to adapt to climate change. Plastics often contain additives that extend their life, allowing them to persist in the environment for hundreds of years. When plastic waste enters oceans, it breaks down into microplastics, which are spread throughout the water column and have been found in every corner of the globe, from Mount Everest to the Mariana Trench. These microplastics are consumed by marine organisms, leading to liver and cell damage, disruptions to reproductive systems, and even death. The impact of microplastics on human health is also a growing concern, as they have been detected in the human body, including the blood, lungs, and feces.
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$17.89
Plastic collection services
Plastic Bank
Plastic Bank is a prominent example, operating as a global bottle deposit program. With headquarters in Canada, Plastic Bank has a presence in several countries, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Brazil, and Thailand. Their collection communities gather plastic bottles, which are then transformed into recycled feedstock, supporting a circular economy. Collection members can exchange plastic for income, social benefits, and other advantages. Plastic Bank utilizes blockchain technology to ensure traceable collection, secured income, and verified reporting.
AAA Polymer
AAA Polymer is a well-established plastic recycling collection service, primarily serving businesses and commercial entities in New York. They have been in operation since 1974 and offer free plastic recycling collection services. AAA Polymer works closely with manufacturers and businesses that generate post-industrial plastic scrap. They provide customized solutions, helping businesses reduce waste management costs and avoid fines for improper plastic disposal. The process involves inspecting, weighing, and transforming plastic waste into valuable assets.
Banyan Nation
Banyan Nation is a pioneer in plastic waste management and recycling, particularly in India. They have developed an inclusive and responsible approach to advancing the circular economy. Banyan Nation has successfully mapped, trained, and integrated thousands of informal waste collectors, known as "kabadiwalas," to enhance material traceability. Additionally, they have implemented innovative plastic washing and recycling technologies to eliminate contaminants, standardize colour, and remove odours and harmful volatile organic compounds from discarded packaging. Through their efforts, leading brands in India have been able to utilize traceable, responsibly recycled plastics.
Local Government Initiatives
In addition to private companies, local governments and municipalities also play a role in plastic collection services. For example, the Belfast City Council provides guidelines on proper waste segregation and offers recycling services for various materials, including certain types of plastic. They emphasize the importance of placing the right materials in the correct bins to avoid contamination and ensure effective recycling.
Curbside Pickup
Some areas offer curbside pickup services for large, bulky items, including certain types of plastic. These services may come with associated fees, and scheduling may vary depending on the location.
These plastic collection services play a crucial role in mitigating plastic pollution, promoting environmental sustainability, and fostering circular economies. By collecting, recycling, and repurposing plastic waste, these organizations contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
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Plastic disposal from large bulky items
Plastic disposal is a challenging task, especially when dealing with large, bulky plastic items. Here are some methods to properly dispose of and recycle plastic items, ensuring a more sustainable approach.
Firstly, identify the type of plastic. Thermoplastics, such as soda bottles, plastic pallets, and microwave food trays, are widely accepted at most recycling facilities. On the other hand, thermoset plastics, including plastic wrap, food storage bags, and grocery bags, are often not recyclable and should be avoided or minimised. Check for the triangle symbol with "chasing arrows" and a number inside to identify the type of plastic.
For large, bulky plastic items, such as broken plastic storage containers, consider placing them on the curb with a sign offering them for free or at a low price. Someone might find them useful and take them off your hands. Alternatively, you can reach out to your local recycling facility to inquire about any restrictions or requirements they may have for purchasing bulk plastic.
Another option is to rent a dumpster to dispose of large amounts of plastic waste at once. This option is commonly used by contractors and business owners but can also be utilised by homeowners dealing with significant plastic waste. Additionally, some waste management companies offer curbside pickup services for large, bulky items, although there may be associated charges.
To reduce the volume of plastic waste, you can crush or cut plastic items into smaller pieces. This method is suitable for various plastic items, including takeaway food containers, PET bottles, and plastic cups. However, always exercise caution when handling sharp objects.
Remember, the key to responsible plastic disposal is to stay informed about your local regulations and reach out to the appropriate waste management authorities for guidance.
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Frequently asked questions
Flexible plastic packaging, including chip bags, Ziplock bags, bubble wrap, and candy wrappers, can be recycled.
Plastic bags and plastic film (shrink wrap) are banned from curbside recycling bins as they can jam equipment.
If banned items are found in your garbage, it may not be collected. You will need to remove the offending item and dispose of it correctly.
Sharps (needles, syringes, and lancets) are clinical waste and must not be put in any domestic bins.
Plastic packaging can be recycled, but it must be clean, dry, and loose.
