Identifying Recyclable Plastics: What You Need To Know

Plastic is everywhere, and it's important to know which types can be recycled. While theoretically, all plastic can be recycled, in practice, there are many barriers to doing so. Some types of plastic are easier to recycle than others, and it's worth familiarising yourself with the different types and their properties. The most common plastics are PET or PETE (usually recycled into fashion items), HDPE, LDPE, PP, PVC, and PS. Each type of plastic has a specific recycling process, and some are tougher to recycle than others. For example, PP is one of the most popular plastic packaging materials globally, but only 1-3% is recycled in the US. It's also important to separate different types of plastics and to ensure they are not contaminated by food or other substances.

Thermosets vs thermoplastics

When it comes to identifying if a plastic is recyclable, it's important to understand the different types of plastics and their varying recyclability. Two broad categories of plastics are thermosets and thermoplastics, and they have distinct characteristics and applications.

Thermoplastics are known for their flexibility, toughness, and impact resistance. They become soft and malleable when heated, making them easy to mould and shape. This quality also contributes to their high recyclability, as they can be recycled multiple times without losing their properties. Examples of thermoplastics include PET, commonly found in water bottles, and HDPE, used in milk jugs. These two types of thermoplastics are the most commonly recycled plastics and are widely accepted by recycling companies. However, it's important to note that even with proper recycling practices, only a small portion of thermoplastics, approximately 9%, actually enter the recycling stream due to the challenges of sorting and processing.

In contrast, thermosets are valued for their strength, durability, and heat resistance. When heated, they retain their strength and shape, making them ideal for high-temperature applications. However, these properties also make thermosets difficult to mould and shape during the manufacturing process. Traditionally, thermosets were not considered recyclable, but this perception is rapidly changing. Thermosets like unsaturated polyester can undergo chemical recycling, where they are converted back into raw materials and used to create new products. Additionally, the durability of thermoset products encourages repeated reuse, reducing the amount of waste that enters the waste stream.

To determine if a plastic is recyclable, it's essential to check for recycling symbols and labels on the packaging. These symbols provide information about whether an item can be recycled, how to dispose of it properly, or if it's made from recycled materials. It's worth noting that not all packaging will have a recycling label, but that doesn't necessarily mean it can't be recycled. Local regulations vary, so it's advisable to check with your municipality or use online tools to find out what specific types of plastic can be recycled in your area.

Some general guidelines to identify recyclable plastics include separating different types of plastics, such as HDPE and LDPE, as well as clear films from coloured or printed film. Additionally, small items like caps and lids below a certain size might be too small for capture during the recycling process and should be considered when disposing of plastic waste. Compostable plastic is another category that requires separate disposal, as it should be recycled with garden waste and not with other plastics to avoid contamination.

Resin identification codes

The numbers inside the "chasing arrows" triangle indicate the distinction between plastics that are recyclable and non-recyclable. Each number signifies a different category of plastic, with seven in total. The higher the number, the harder it is to recycle.

• 1: Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
• 2: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
• 3: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• 4: Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
• 5: Polypropylene (PP)
• 6: Polystyrene (PS)

Code 7 means the packaging is made of a type of plastic other than the previous six, or is a mixture of plastics. This includes bioplastics, composite plastics, plastic-coated wrapping paper, and polycarbonate. It's important to note that the presence of an RIC on an item does not necessarily indicate that it is recyclable.

Local recycling programs

• Check Local Guidelines: Visit your community's official website or contact your local recycler to find out the specific guidelines for your area. Recycling programs can differ between provinces, territories, and local communities, so it's important to refer to the relevant sources for accurate information.
• Plastic Recycling Variability: The recyclability of certain types of plastics can vary depending on your location. For example, plastic bags may be recyclable in one region but not in another. Always check with your local program to confirm if they accept specific types of plastic.
• Common Recyclables: Many common items, such as newspapers, magazines, pizza boxes (after removing food scraps), and envelopes with plastic windows, are often accepted by local recycling programs. However, it's still important to check your local guidelines, as there may be specific requirements or restrictions.
• Special Considerations: Some materials require special handling. For instance, compostable plastics should not be mixed with non-compostable plastics and typically require a dedicated composting program or drop-off location. Biobased plastics also require checking the product label for specific disposal instructions.
• Retail and Grocery Stores: Retail and grocery stores often provide recycling options for certain materials that may not be accepted in your household recycling bin. For example, plastic bags, plastic wrap, and plastic film can often be recycled at these stores.
• Battery Recycling: Batteries should not be placed in curbside recycling bins due to safety concerns. Instead, check with your local recycling provider or visit websites like Earth911 to find nearby drop-off locations or collection events for battery recycling. Some stores, such as Home Depot and Best Buy, also offer battery recycling options.
• Glass Recycling: Glass recycling guidelines can vary, and some local programs may not accept glass. Check with your local program or refer to resources like the Michigan Recycling Directory to find opportunities for recycling glass at nearby drop-off locations.
• Contamination and Cleanliness: Keep in mind that contamination is a significant concern in recycling. Always ensure that recyclables, especially cardboard and paper, are free from food residue and grease. A simple rinse or scrape to make the item "spatula-clean" is usually sufficient.

Compostable plastics

Identifying compostable plastics can be a little tricky, but there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for. Firstly, check for a "Compostable" label or logo on the product. Common certifications include the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) logo, the European "Seedling" logo, or the DIN CERTCO logo. These certifications ensure that the plastic will safely break down in a compost environment.

Another way to identify compostable plastics is through resin codes or recycling symbols. Look for a triangle of arrows with a number in the centre, typically on the bottom of the product. If the number is "7", it often indicates "Other", which can include compostable bioplastics. However, not all plastics with the number 7 are compostable, so further investigation is needed. Sometimes, you might also find a "PLA" or "PBAT" code, which indicates compostable materials.

Some common compostable plastics include Polylactic Acid (PLA), which is often used for food packaging, bottles, and containers. It's made from renewable resources like corn starch and sugar cane. Another example is Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT), which

Plastic packaging

However, identifying composite plastic packaging can be challenging because they are made of multiple layers of different materials. These may include plastic films, aluminium foil, or paper. If one side of the packaging is dull and the other is shiny, it is likely a composite material. Composite plastic packaging often contains a barrier layer, usually made of aluminium or another material, to protect the contents from moisture, oxygen, and other external factors.

Some plastic packaging may not have a recycling label, but this does not necessarily mean that it cannot be recycled. Local authorities may collect it, so you can enter your postcode into a Recycling Locator tool to find out what you can put in your home recycling bin. Retail and grocery stores often accept plastic bags for recycling, and some communities have drop-off locations for styrofoam.

Frequently asked questions