Alexei Volkov
With the world generating over 35 million tons of plastic in 2018, it is important to recycle plastic products properly. However, this can be challenging as there are seven different types of plastic, and many products are made from multiple types of plastic and different layers, which are hard to separate and recycle. Additionally, some types of plastic are not accepted by community recycling programs, and even if they are, they may not be collected for recycling in your community. To determine how to recycle plastic containers, you should check the type of plastic used and confirm whether your local program accepts it. You can do this by checking for a resin identification code, which is a number inside a triangle of arrows, and consulting your local waste management agency.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Type | There are seven different types of plastic used around the world. The most widely recycled plastic is PET, which is mostly found in plastic bottles. |
| Local Programs | Check local programs to confirm what types of plastic are accepted for recycling in your area. |
| Food Debris | Items contaminated by food debris cannot be recycled. |
| Compostable Plastic | Compostable plastics are not intended for recycling and can contaminate the recycling stream if mixed with non-compostable plastics. |
| Biobased Plastic | Check product labels to determine waste disposal options for biobased plastics. |
| Plastic Bags | Plastic bags cannot be recycled and can cause harm to recycling facilities. Return them to the store or reuse them. |
| Plastic Utensils | Plastic utensils cannot be recycled. |
| Black Plastic Containers | Black plastic containers cannot be recycled. |
| Polystyrene Foam Containers | Polystyrene foam containers, often referred to as "Styrofoam," cannot be recycled. |
| Plastic Clamshells | Clear plastic clamshells with a recycling symbol can be recycled. |
| Aluminum Containers | Aluminum containers are recyclable and easy to clean. |
| Paper/Cardboard Containers | Paper or cardboard containers can be recycled if they are clean and have not soaked up grease. |
| Paper Bags | Paper bags can be recycled or reused. |
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What You'll Learn
Check for the resin identification code
When choosing plastic containers to recycle, it is important to check for the resin identification code. This is because different types of plastic have different recycling processes and some may not be recyclable in your area. The resin identification code is a numbering system that helps identify the type of resin or plastic that the container is made of. It is usually indicated by a number from 1 to 7 enclosed in a triangle of arrows, which looks very similar to the recycling symbol. However, it is important to note that the presence of this code does not always indicate that the item can be recycled in your community.
The resin identification code provides valuable information about the type of plastic the container is made of. For example, containers marked with a "1" are typically made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic, which is one of the most commonly recycled plastics. It is used for products such as soda bottles, water bottles, and food packaging. On the other hand, containers marked with a "2" are often made from HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic, which is also widely recycled and used for items like milk jugs, detergent bottles, and shampoo bottles.
By checking the resin identification code, you can gain a better understanding of the specific type of plastic you are dealing with. This information can then be used to determine if the container is accepted by your local recycling program. It is important to remember that each community may have different rules and accepted types of plastic. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check with your local waste management agency or recycling coordinator to get the most accurate and up-to-date information for your area.
Additionally, the resin identification code can provide insights into the potential challenges of recycling certain types of plastic. For instance, some plastics may be more difficult to recycle due to their complex structures or the presence of multiple layers of different plastics. Flexible packaging, such as potato chip bags, often falls into this category, as they are made from various types of plastic that are challenging to separate. By understanding the resin code, you can make more informed decisions about which containers to choose for recycling and ensure that you are following the best practices for your specific community.
Overall, checking for the resin identification code is a crucial step when choosing plastic containers for recycling. It helps you identify the type of plastic, determine its recyclability in your area, and understand the potential challenges associated with recycling certain types of plastic. Remember to refer to local guidelines and stay informed about the specific types of plastic accepted in your community's recycling program.
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Avoid black plastic containers
When choosing plastic containers to recycle, it is important to be aware of the different types of plastics and the specific recycling guidelines for your local area. Checking the resin identification code, usually a number inside a triangle of arrows, can help identify the type of plastic and whether it is accepted by your local recycling program. It is also good practice to clean tubs before placing them in the bin and to separate flexible packaging into its different components.
However, one type of plastic that should always be avoided when choosing containers to recycle is black plastic. Black plastic is often not recycled due to the use of carbon black, a pigment that is not recognized by near-infrared scanners used for sorting recyclables. This means that black plastic items are frequently missed during the sorting process and end up in landfills. In addition, black plastic is more likely to contain unregulated amounts of toxic chemicals, including heavy metals and flame retardants, which can pose a hazard to human health if they leach into food.
The presence of carbon black, which contains compounds with potentially carcinogenic properties, further contributes to the challenges of recycling black plastic. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), classified as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), are among the compounds found in carbon black. While it is not yet known if these chemicals leach out of black plastic containers during microwaving, it is generally recommended to avoid microwaving food in any color of plastic container.
The lack of recycled black plastic has led to the use of e-waste to meet the demand for black plastic products. Discarded electronics, such as old computers, phones, and appliances, contain toxic chemicals that are melted down and mixed with food-grade plastics. These chemical-laced plastics are then turned into various everyday items, including children's toys, utensils, and cooking implements. However, there are currently no government regulations covering the safety of recycled black plastic items, allowing for potentially harmful levels of toxic chemicals in these products.
To summarize, when choosing plastic containers to recycle, it is best to avoid black plastic due to its negative environmental and health impacts. By excluding black plastic from your recycling bin and reducing its demand, you can help minimize the presence of toxic chemicals in everyday items and contribute to a more sustainable future.
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Avoid polystyrene foam containers
Polystyrene foam, often referred to as Styrofoam, is a non-recyclable material. It is made from petroleum, like most plastics, and is comprised of more than 90% air. This makes it lightweight and bulky, which, in turn, makes it difficult to recycle. Its collection and transportation impacts often outweigh the environmental benefits.
True Styrofoam is a brand name for a specific variation of expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging, designed for use in building insulation. However, the term 'Styrofoam' is often used colloquially to refer to all EPS products. These include foam egg cartons, meat trays, cups, packaging inserts, coolers, and packaging peanuts.
EPS can be recycled, but it requires a special machine to remove the air and condense the material into a dense block for resale. Most recycling facilities do not have this equipment, so EPS must be taken to a specific location to be processed.
Due to the difficulties and costs associated with polystyrene foam recycling, many communities and local governments have banned its use, especially for food service ware. Some areas have also established drop-off locations specifically for foam packaging.
To avoid contributing to the waste problem, it is best to avoid using polystyrene foam products whenever possible. Reusable containers and plates are always a better option, and they significantly reduce the need for single-use polystyrene items.
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Check for food contamination
Food contamination is a significant issue when it comes to recycling plastic containers. Even a small amount of food residue can contaminate an entire batch of recyclable plastic, rendering it non-recyclable. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that any plastic containers you wish to recycle are thoroughly cleaned and dried before placing them in the recycling bin.
Different local recycling programs may have varying guidelines regarding food contamination. Some programs may accept containers with minor food residue, while others may require them to be entirely residue-free. It is crucial to consult your local guidelines or waste management agency to understand their specific requirements.
To effectively clean your plastic containers, start by scraping or rinsing off any large pieces of food or liquid residue. Then, wash the containers with hot water and dish soap, ensuring that all surfaces, including the corners and lids, are thoroughly cleaned. For containers with stubborn residue, you can use a mild cleaning solution or a specialised plastic container cleaner.
Once your containers are clean, it is essential to dry them properly. Moisture can impact the recycling process, so ensure your containers are completely dry before placing them in the recycling bin. You can air-dry them or use a clean cloth to wipe them down.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some plastic containers used for food storage may not be recyclable at all due to the type of plastic they are made of or their design. For example, black plastic containers and polystyrene foam containers are often non-recyclable. Always check the recycling symbol on the container and consult your local guidelines to determine if a specific type of plastic container is accepted in your area.
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Reuse containers for storage
Reusing plastic containers for storage is a great way to reduce waste and get creative. Here are some tips and ideas for reusing plastic containers for storage:
Choosing Containers for Reuse
Firstly, it is important to note that not all plastics are created equal. Some containers are designed for single use only and reusing them can be unsafe. Check for a recycling symbol or Resin Identification Code on the container, which indicates that it is made of recyclable plastic. If the container shows signs of discoloration or cloudiness, it is best to recycle it as this indicates that the material is breaking down and may leach chemicals or microplastics.
Reuse Ideas for Plastic Containers
- Storage for Dry Goods and Leftovers: Reuse plastic containers to store dry goods in your pantry, such as cereals, nuts, or biscuits. You can also use them to store leftovers in the fridge, but avoid using them for freezing as they are typically not made for very low temperatures.
- Organising and Crafts: Use plastic containers to organise and store items such as stationery, craft supplies, bathroom essentials, or cleaning products. You can also fill them with soil to grow small indoor plants.
- Food Transport: Plastic containers are useful for transporting food, such as bringing treats to a potluck or sending leftovers home with a friend.
- Worm Bin: A large plastic container with a lid can be used to create a worm bin for worm composting.
- Recycling Bin: Use a plastic container to collect hard-to-recycle materials, such as plastic film or baby food pouches, and take them to a local recycling centre.
- Donation: If you have plastic containers that are still in good condition but you no longer need them, consider donating them to thrift stores, charities, schools, or childcare centres. These organisations may appreciate extra storage containers.
- Creative Reuse: Get creative and think outside the box! For example, use a plastic container to hide treats for your children or use peanut butter jars for Christmas gifts filled with candy and small crafts.
Remember, while reusing plastic containers is a great way to reduce waste, it is important to avoid using them for reheating food in the microwave or oven, as this can cause the plastic to melt and leach toxins. Always follow best practices for safe plastic reuse, and consider alternatives like glass or stainless steel for food storage when possible.
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Frequently asked questions
Check for the resin identification code, which is a number between 1 and 7 inside a triangle of arrows. This will tell you what type of plastic the container is made of. Then, check with your local recycling program to see if they accept that type of plastic.
Plastic bottles with caps or openings smaller than the base, laundry detergent bottles, shampoo bottles, cosmetic caps, and packaging films are some of the most commonly recycled plastic containers.
Plastic bags, plastic utensils, styrofoam containers, and clamshells (unless they have a recycling symbol) are some examples of plastic containers that are typically not recyclable.
