Alexei Volkov
Plastic waste is a significant environmental concern, with less than 10% of plastic waste generated worldwide having been recycled. One of the barriers to effective recycling is a lack of awareness of the seven plastic recycling symbols, which indicate the different types of plastic and their distinct recycling instructions. These symbols, known as Resin Identification Codes (RIC), were created in 1988 by The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) to provide a standard method of identifying different plastics. The RICs are represented by a 'chasing arrows' symbol surrounding a number from 1 to 7, with each number corresponding to a specific type of plastic, such as PET or PS. By understanding these codes, consumers can make informed choices about recyclability and contribute to more effective recycling practices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Recycling Symbols | 7 |
| Symbols Designed By | The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) |
| Year of Creation | 1988 |
| Purpose | To help provide a standard and uniform method to identify different types of plastics |
| Symbols | Mobius/chasing arrows symbol with a number inside |
| Numbers | 1 through 7 |
| Code 1 | PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) |
| Code 2 | HDPE |
| Code 3 | PVC |
| Code 4 | LDPE |
| Code 5 | PP |
| Code 6 | PS |
| Code 7 | Other |
| Code 7 Characteristics | Can be made from any combination of different plastics, difficult to recycle |
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What You'll Learn
The Mobius symbol with a number inside
The Mobius strip, also known as the universal recycling symbol, is a widely recognised symbol. It consists of three chasing arrows surrounding a number, usually coloured green. The symbol was designed by a 23-year-old university student, Gary Anderson, in 1970, after a sponsored contest was held in America to raise awareness about environmental issues.
On the other hand, polystyrene (PS), denoted by the number 6, is challenging to recycle. It is used to make rigid products like disposable plates, cups, and CD cases, as well as foam products like Styrofoam. Due to its tendency to break apart into smaller pieces, foam products should be placed in a bag, sealed, and then discarded to prevent the pieces from dispersing.
Number 7 plastics are the most difficult to recycle. They encompass products made from any combination of different plastics. As a result, most curbside recycling programs do not accept products marked with the number 7.
It is important to note that the Mobius symbol does not guarantee that an item can be recycled by all recycling centres. It is essential to understand your local recycling rules and guidelines to ensure proper recycling practices.
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Resin Identification Code (RIC)
The Resin Identification Code (RIC) system was developed by The Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc. (SPI) in 1988. It is a way to identify the resin content of plastic containers, which facilitates their collection, disposal, and recycling. The RICs are now covered in an ASTM International standard, D7611/D7611M, "Standard Practice for Coding Plastic Manufactured Articles for Resin Identification".
The RIC system is used to identify the type of plastic resin used in a manufactured article. It does not include guidelines on the amount of other materials, such as additives, that can be in a labelled article. The seven RIC labels, with numbers surrounded by three arrows forming a triangle, indicate different types of resin and give information on what kind of plastic the product is and how it can be recycled.
The RIC system is not mandatory in the United States, but 36 to 39 states have enacted legislation requiring the use of RICs to identify the primary type of resin used in some plastic products. The specific requirements for RICs may vary by state. For example, multilayer plastic containers that are predominantly composed of a single resin may be coded based on the predominant resin content, provided that the other resins are compatible with the recycling systems for that resin.
While the RIC system provides valuable information for recyclers and the public, it is not easily decipherable for consumers as it was not designed with them in mind. To address this, the Sustainable Packaging Coalition is advocating for a new plastic recycling code system called How2Recycle, which uses labels with clear instructions on how to treat a specific item, rather than a complicated numbered system.
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Understanding the recycling process
Plastic recycling is a complex process that plays a vital role in managing waste and creating a more sustainable future. It is a reverse supply chain that begins when an empty container is placed in a recycling bin. The process can be broadly divided into three stages: collection, sorting, and reprocessing.
Collection
The first stage of the recycling process involves collecting plastic waste from households, businesses, schools, and local recycling centres. Local authorities, independent waste collectors, or waste management contractors collect the recycling and transport it to transfer stations or Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs). Some MRFs may also sort and recycle plastic, while others may send the plastic to dedicated Plastic Recovery Facilities (PRFs).
Sorting
The second stage involves sorting plastic from other materials and then sorting the different types of plastic. This can be done manually or using specialised equipment such as optical sorters. Sorting is based on chemical composition, colour, thickness, and usage. After sorting, the plastic is washed to remove impurities such as food residue, adhesives, and labels. It is then shredded or ground into smaller pieces, which can be used as raw material or additives.
Reprocessing
In the final stage, the shredded plastic is melted and extruded into new recycled plastic pellets. These pellets are sold to manufacturers who incorporate them into new products. The recycled plastic may undergo further processing, such as filtration to remove small solids, before being turned into new products.
It is important to note that not all plastic can be recycled equally well. Some types of plastic, such as polystyrene (commonly known as styrofoam), are difficult to recycle and may not be accepted by many recycling programs. Additionally, products made from a combination of plastics or mixed materials can be challenging to recycle and often end up as waste.
To improve the recycling process, it is essential to understand the different plastic recycling codes and symbols. These codes indicate the resin type and help identify which products can be safely recycled. By learning these codes, individuals can ensure they are recycling correctly and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
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Plastic products that can be recycled
Plastic products are usually labelled with a recycling symbol and a number from 1 to 7, which indicates the type of plastic resin used. These numbers are known as Plastic Resin Identification Codes or plastic recycling codes. The codes are used to help recycling plants identify and separate different types of plastics, as they need to be processed and recycled separately.
- PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) (Code 1): This type of plastic is commonly used for single-use bottled beverages as it is inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to recycle. It can be found in soft drink bottles, water bottles, ketchup bottles, beer bottles, mouthwash bottles, peanut butter containers, salad dressing containers, and vegetable oil containers. PET or PETE can be recycled through most curbside recycling programs, but it must be emptied and rinsed of any food residue first.
- HDPE (high-density polyethylene) (Code 2): This type of plastic is often used for making durable items like detergent bottles, milk jugs, shampoo bottles, and grocery bags. HDPE is considered a safe form of plastic for both people and the environment. It can be recycled, but it is important to check with local recycling programs, as different areas may have specific requirements or limitations.
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) (Code 3): PVC is a strong and durable plastic that is used in a wide range of products, including pipes, wire and cable insulation, credit cards, and flooring. It is also known for its flexibility and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. While PVC can be recycled, it is important to note that it is one of the more difficult plastics to recycle due to the presence of chlorine, which can release harmful chemicals during the recycling process. As a result, not all recycling centers may accept it.
- LDPE (low-density polyethylene) (Code 4): LDPE is a flexible plastic used in plastic bags, film, and six-pack rings. It is also used in some flexible lids and containers. LDPE can be recycled, but it often requires specialized facilities, and not all curbside recycling programs accept it. It is important to check with your local recycling guidelines to ensure proper disposal.
It is important to note that the recyclability of plastic products can vary depending on your location, as different regions and municipalities have their own specific recycling programs and guidelines. Additionally, some plastic products may be technically recyclable but are not widely recycled due to economical, environmental, or technical reasons.
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Plastic products that cannot be recycled
Plastic products are labelled with a recycling symbol code, also known as a Plastic Resin Identification Codes, which was created and designed by The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) in 1988. The code is the number inside the recycling symbol on plastic containers, and it ranges from 1 to 7, with 7 being 'other'. This number helps identify the type of plastic and its recyclability. However, it is important to note that these codes are not always a clear indicator, and there are other factors that determine whether a plastic product can be recycled.
Some plastic products that cannot be recycled include:
- Plastic bags: They can get caught in the recycling facility's machines and clog them. Most kerbside collections do not accept plastic bags due to this issue.
- Polystyrene (Styrofoam): This plastic is difficult to recycle and is widely known for dispersing widely across landscapes. It is often not accepted by recycling programs, even when in rigid plastic form.
- Plastic straws: These are single-use plastic products that should be avoided. Reusable alternatives, such as metal straws, are recommended.
- Plastic-coated paper: Products like paper cups, which are mostly made of paper, cannot be recycled because they are coated in plastic. This plastic coating prevents the paper from being broken down and recycled.
- Bioplastics, composite plastics, and polycarbonate: These types of plastics are not easily recyclable and often require special processing.
- Plastic wrap and crisp packets: These fall under the incredibly hard-to-recycle plastics category due to their thin and flexible nature.
- Plastic products with resin codes of 7: These are "other" plastics that can be made from any combination of different plastics, making them challenging to recycle.
It is important to note that the recyclability of plastic products can vary depending on the region and the capabilities of local recycling programs. It is always a good idea to check with your local recycling guidelines to ensure proper disposal or recycling methods. Additionally, reducing plastic usage and switching to reusable options whenever possible is essential for minimizing plastic waste.
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