Alexei Volkov
Plastic is everywhere: in our homes, communities, oceans, and even our bodies. While some plastics can be recycled and reused, others cannot and end up in landfills, taking up space and leaking harmful chemicals into the environment. These non-recyclable plastics, such as single-use plastic wraps, detergent bottles, and Styrofoam cups, often bear the numbers #3, #6, or #7. While it is better to dispose of them in general waste bins rather than recycling bins, there are other ways to deal with them, such as new processes that convert non-recyclable plastics into reusable materials.
What to do with non-recyclable plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Identification | Non-recyclable plastics are usually marked with a #3, #6, or #7. |
| Types | PVC, polystyrene, plastic bags, cling wrap, ziploc bags, plastic seals, etc. |
| Disposal | Non-recyclable plastics should be disposed of in general waste bins, not recycling bins. |
| Environmental Impact | Non-recyclable plastics can end up in landfills or oceans, harming the environment and marine life. |
| Alternative Solutions | Consumers can opt for products with less or no plastic packaging. |
| Reuse | Non-recyclable plastics can be reused or repurposed, e.g., using a reusable cup instead of single-use plastic. |
| Innovations | Scientists are working on enzymes to speed up plastic decomposition, and new processes to convert non-recyclable plastics into recyclable materials. |
| Proper Sorting | Consumers should ensure proper sorting of waste to avoid contaminating recyclable materials. |
| Composting | Composting food scraps, soiled paper, and yard waste can reduce waste sent to landfills. |
| Recycling Programs | Organisations like TerraCycle offer recycling programs for typically hard-to-recycle waste. |
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What You'll Learn
Reduce plastic consumption
Plastic is a material that has found its way into our lives in almost every arena—our homes, communities, natural landscape, oceans, and even our bodies. While some plastics can be recycled, there are many that cannot be, and these non-recyclable plastics pose a significant problem. Most plastic products take hundreds of years to decompose, and as they start to degrade, they release harmful chemicals into the environment. Plastic waste also ends up in oceans, causing immense harm to marine life.
To reduce plastic consumption, it is important to be mindful of the types of plastic we use and to make an effort to choose reusable and eco-friendly alternatives whenever possible. Here are some ways to reduce plastic consumption:
- Avoid single-use plastics: Single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, straws, water bottles, and food packaging, are a major contributor to plastic waste. Instead, opt for reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, metal or bamboo straws, reusable water bottles, and containers for storing food.
- Choose products with minimal packaging: When shopping, look for products that are packaged without plastic or with minimal plastic packaging. Many grocery stores now offer bulk sections where you can bring your own containers and buy items like grains, nuts, and spices in bulk, reducing the amount of packaging waste.
- Support companies with sustainable practices: When making purchases, consider choosing companies that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Look for companies that use recyclable or compostable packaging, and those that offer refill and return programs to minimize waste.
- Reuse and repurpose plastic items: Before discarding any plastic items, consider if they can be reused or repurposed. For example, plastic containers can be used for storage, and plastic bags can be washed and reused for other purposes.
- Recycle properly: When it comes to recycling plastic, it is important to separate recyclable from non-recyclable materials. Check the bottom of plastic containers for the Resin Identification Code (RIC), a number between one and seven that indicates the type of plastic. Numbers 1 and 2 are the most commonly recyclable, while numbers 3, 6, and 7 are generally non-recyclable. However, some recycling centers may have the technology to recycle these plastics, so check with your local center. Additionally, some organizations like TerraCycle offer programs for recycling typically hard-to-recycle waste.
- Compost organic waste: Composting food scraps, soiled paper, and yard waste can help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. However, it is important to note that proper composting methods should be followed to avoid anaerobic decomposition, which releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere.
By implementing these practices, we can significantly reduce our plastic consumption and minimize our environmental impact. It is important to stay informed, proactive, and mindful of our consumption habits to make a positive difference for the planet.
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Reuse non-recyclable plastics
While there are some non-recyclable plastics that cannot be recycled, there are ways to reuse and repurpose them.
One way to reuse non-recyclable plastics is to give them a new purpose. For example, plastic bags can be cut and reused as garbage bags, or plastic containers can be used for storage or as plant pots. Some companies, such as Sea Witch Botanicals, encourage consumers to reuse their packaging, such as spray nozzles and plastic hygienic seals. Similarly, some grocery stores accept non-recyclable plastics and recycle them properly.
Another way to reuse non-recyclable plastics is to find alternative disposal methods. For instance, some plastics can be melted and reformed into new items. This process involves grinding the plastic into a fine powder and then pressing it into a heated mold to form a new shape. This method can be used to create new products such as egg cartons, vents, speed bumps, cables, and paneling. Additionally, some companies, such as TerraCycle, offer free nationwide recycling programs for hard-to-recycle waste, including contact lenses, makeup products, e-waste, and oral care products.
It is important to note that non-recyclable plastics should not be placed in recycling bins as they can clog the processing machinery at recycling facilities. Instead, they should be disposed of in the general waste bin. However, this is not an ideal solution as most non-recyclable plastics end up in landfills, taking up space and leaking harmful chemicals into the environment.
To reduce the impact of non-recyclable plastics, it is essential to be mindful of plastic consumption and opt for products with eco-friendly packaging. Additionally, individuals can compost their food scraps, soiled paper, and yard waste to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
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Dispose of non-recyclable plastics with general waste
Non-recyclable plastics are a major contributor to the world's landfills, which is a significant problem as plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose. When buried in landfills, plastic waste takes up valuable space and leaks harmful chemicals back into the environment. It is also a leading cause of pollution in our oceans, with lightweight items such as plastic bags, straws, and food packaging ending up in waterways and breaking down into microplastics, which can be harmful and detrimental to marine life.
The best way to dispose of non-recyclable plastics is to throw them away with your general waste. Although this may seem uneconomical, it is actually beneficial as non-recyclable plastics can clog the processing machinery at recycling facilities, interfering with the recycling process. Non-recyclable plastics include items such as cling wrap, ziploc bags, and plastic bags, which can be dangerous if they get caught in the machinery at recycling facilities.
It is important to note that some plastics that are typically non-recyclable can be recycled by certain recycling centers. For example, some centers can recycle plastics with the Resin Identification Code (RIC) of #3, #6, and #7, which are usually non-recyclable. These plastics can be transformed into useful items such as egg cartons, cables, and paneling. Therefore, it is always worth checking with your local recycling center to see if they have the technological capability to recycle these plastics.
Additionally, there are other ways to reduce your non-recyclable plastic waste. You can opt for products that are packaged without plastic or choose reusable containers instead of single-use plastic items. You can also compost your food scraps, soiled paper, and yard waste to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. Furthermore, scientists are working on implementing plastic-eating enzymes to speed up the decomposition process of plastic bottles and some companies are actively researching ways to avoid plastic in their product lines.
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Recycle non-recyclable plastics through specialist programs
While it is always best to avoid single-use plastics, there are times when this is unavoidable. In these instances, it is important to dispose of non-recyclable plastics properly to reduce their impact on the environment.
Non-recyclable plastics are those that contain polymers that form irreversible chemical bonds. Examples include bioplastics, composite plastic, plastic-coated paper, and polycarbonate. These plastics cannot be melted and reshaped and will end up in landfills, taking up space and leaking harmful chemicals into the environment as they slowly degrade.
However, there are specialist programs that can recycle non-recyclable plastics. These programs use innovative processes to treat and recycle plastics that were previously hard or even impossible to recycle. For example, some programs use plastic-eating enzymes to speed up the decomposition process, while others use mechanical processes to break down and reform plastics.
One such program is the ENZYCLE project, which develops enzymatic processes to recycle plastic waste that was previously impossible to recycle. This includes plastics used in packaging such as bottles, trays, pots, bags, tubes, and films. The project also focuses on microplastics in wastewater, aiming to protect ecosystems and minimise the risks to marine life.
You can also check with your local grocery store, as many have programs for recycling plastic bags and other clean plastics such as cling wrap, ziploc bags, and produce bags. Additionally, some waste management providers offer comprehensive recycling services that cover a range of materials, including non-recyclable plastics.
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Avoid contaminating recyclable waste
When it comes to recycling, contamination occurs when non-recyclable material ends up in the recycling system. This can cause entire loads of recyclable materials to be rejected and end up in landfills. To avoid contaminating recyclable waste, it is important to follow these steps:
Firstly, always separate different materials. Place all plastic and glass in one bag and keep them separate from paper and cardboard. This is because containers with food residue can contaminate other recyclables like paper and cardboard. For example, a common mistake is to recycle takeaway pizza boxes without removing grease stains.
Secondly, ensure that all containers are empty and rinsed before placing them in the recycling bin. Leftover food, liquids, oil, or grease can spill or leak onto other recyclables, contaminating them. A simple rinse is usually sufficient to reduce the likelihood of contamination.
Thirdly, check the recycling guidelines for your local area. Different regions have varying recycling practices, and what is accepted as recyclable in one place might be considered contamination elsewhere. Look for specific instructions on how to recycle certain items, such as whether to leave lids on or off. You can use resources like the Recycle Coach app or your local municipality's waste management website to determine what is acceptable for recycling in your area.
Finally, reduce your consumption of single-use plastics and opt for reusable alternatives whenever possible. This proactive approach will help decrease the amount of non-recyclable plastic waste that ends up in landfills or the ocean. Additionally, consider composting your food scraps, soiled paper, and yard waste to further reduce your environmental impact.
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Frequently asked questions
Some examples of non-recyclable plastics include: PVC or vinyl, Styrofoam, plastic baby bottles, plastic bags, plastic wrap, plastic hoses, plastic hangers, plastic cords, plastic wires, plastic pipes, plastic detergent bottles, plastic shower curtains, plastic window cleaner bottles, plastic home siding, plastic egg cartons, plastic cups, plastic plates, plastic carry-out containers, plastic disposable cutlery, and plastic CD cases.
Non-recyclable plastics can take hundreds of years to degrade, taking up valuable space in landfills. They can also end up in oceans, streams, and other waterways, breaking apart into tiny particles known as microplastics. These microplastics can contain harmful additives, providing a surface for other pollutants and microbes to cling to, and building up in the bodies of animals.
To properly dispose of non-recyclable plastics, it is best to throw them away in your general waste bin rather than your recycling bin, as they can clog the processing machinery at recycling facilities. You can also try to reuse or upcycle non-recyclable plastics, or look for local recycling programs that accept non-curbside plastics, such as grocery stores or TerraCycle. Additionally, you can reduce your consumption of single-use plastics and choose reusable alternatives whenever possible.
