Ethan Clarke
Plastic waste is a pressing issue for governments, organisations, and environmentalists alike, as the majority of plastics are disposed of in non-environmentally friendly ways. While recycling plastic is critical to improving the environment and bettering waste management solutions, not all plastics are widely recyclable. The recyclability of plastic types depends on how they are made; thermoset plastics, for example, contain polymers that form irreversible chemical bonds and cannot be recycled, whereas thermoplastics can be remelted and remolded. Non-recyclable plastics include bioplastics, composite plastic, plastic-coated paper, and polycarbonate. Other non-recyclable items include plastic straws, plastic bags, and Styrofoam containers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of plastic | Thermoset plastics, including epoxy, phenolic, unsaturated polyester, and urethane |
| Resin codes | 3, 6, and 7 |
| Plastic items | Plastic bags, straws, coffee cups, plastic-coated paper cups, cling film, blister packaging, plastic-coated wrapping paper, composite plastic, bioplastics, polycarbonate, syringes, gloves, tubing, PE-LD packing foam, medication bottles, snack wrappers, cellophane, coffee bags, prepared food pouches, vinyl blinds, fencing, siding, clamshells, Styrofoam food containers, plastic tubes |
| Reasons | Contaminated with food, made from low-value plastic resins, contain hazardous substances, cannot be separated, weathering, building codes |
| Issues | Plastic takes 500-1000 years to biodegrade, clogs recycling machines, causes damage to recycling equipment |
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Thermoset plastics
The main disadvantage of thermoset plastics is that they cannot be recycled or reused using traditional methods. When heated, thermoset plastics will typically burn before they can be remoulded. This is because the bonds that form between the polymer molecules are strong chemical attachments called covalent bonds, which are very difficult to break. As a result, thermoset plastics are known as "unrecyclable" and have contributed significantly to plastic waste and environmental pollution.
However, recent advancements in recycling technology have provided some hope for recycling thermoset plastics. Researchers at MIT have developed a way to modify thermoset plastics with a chemical linker, making them easier to recycle while retaining their mechanical strength. Additionally, the creation of recyclable thermosets called poly(hexahydrotriazine)s (PHTs) has shown promise in breaking down these plastics using strong acids. These advancements are crucial steps towards reducing the environmental impact of thermoset plastics and improving waste management solutions.
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Plastic straws
To properly recycle plastic straws, it is essential to check with your local municipality or waste management company, as different locations may have different processes and accepted materials. Some places, like Los Angeles, allow plastic straws to be recycled in blue trash bins, while other places, like Denver, do not recycle them at all.
If your local recycling center does not accept plastic straws, there are alternative disposal methods. One option is to reuse straws by washing and storing them for future use. Others may choose to upcycle straws into items like jewelry or decorations. Additionally, some organizations accept plastic straw donations to repurpose the material for creating recycled art pieces, raising awareness about the global plastics problem.
The best way to reduce the environmental impact of plastic straws is to avoid using them altogether. Many parts of the US are taking steps to reduce straw consumption, and it is encouraged to decline a straw when ordering drinks or requesting that servers refrain from providing them. By taking these actions, individuals can play a crucial role in minimizing the ecological footprint of plastic straws.
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Plastic bags
Firstly, LDPE is a very cheap and low-quality plastic, making its recycling financially unattractive. The low value of LDPE means that many municipalities won't accept it in curbside recycling bins.
Secondly, plastic bags tend to tangle in recycling machinery, endangering the entire recycling process. They can get stuck in the equipment, requiring workers to shut down the machinery and remove them, resulting in a waste of time and money. This is why most recyclers prefer that all recyclables are placed loose in the bin, not in a bag.
Despite these challenges, when LDPE is recycled, it can be transformed into bin liners, packaging films, synthetic lumber for decking, or park benches.
It's worth noting that plastic bags are not the only type of plastic that can be challenging to recycle. Products made from multiple types of plastic or different layers can be difficult and costly to separate for recycling. Additionally, any plastic material with food residues on or in it cannot be recycled and must be washed before being recycled.
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Plastic-coated paper
The non-recyclability of plastic-coated paper is due to the plastic coating, which cannot be easily separated from the paper. This is a common issue with many non-recyclable plastics, which are made with multiple types of materials or plastic resins that cannot be easily separated during the recycling process.
Another reason why certain plastics cannot be recycled is the presence of hazardous substances, such as in personal hygiene products or medical supplies. These items cannot be recycled due to the risk of contamination.
Additionally, some low-value plastic resins, such as PE-LD packing foam, are not recyclable because they are made from low-value materials that are not worth the cost of recycling.
It is important to note that the recyclability of plastic can vary depending on the region and the capabilities of the local recycling centers. For example, New York City accepts all plastic bottles, jars, jugs, and containers, regardless of the resin code, while most other municipalities only accept certain resin codes, typically numbers 1 and 2.
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Medical plastics
Single-use plastics used for medical purposes, such as syringes, gloves, tubing, and certain prescription bottles, are often non-recyclable and must be disposed of in the trash. This is because they may contain traces of medications or other contaminants that pose a risk to the environment and human health. Similarly, plastic components used in personal hygiene products like diapers and feminine hygiene items are non-recyclable and require special disposal methods.
Some medical plastics, however, can be recycled. Rigid coloured and opaque plastic containers, such as water pitchers and patient care basins, are often made from polypropylene (PP) and can be recycled with #5 materials. Polypropylene is a common plastic packaging material, but it has a low recycling rate due to the complexity and cost of the process. Flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid sterile barrier packaging, which is often used to hold medical devices, may also be recyclable. These packages are typically constructed from multiple types of materials, including Tyvek® (high-density polyethylene) and films made from Polyester, Polyethylene, Polyamides, Polypropylene, and Ionomers.
Additionally, flexible clear packaging, such as shrink wrap, stretch film, and plastic bags used in healthcare settings, can be recycled with #2 materials. This type of packaging is usually made from polyethylene (PE) and is commonly found in large quantities in healthcare facilities.
It is important to note that the recyclability of medical plastics can vary depending on local regulations and waste management systems. It is always advisable to check with local waste management providers to understand the specific guidelines for recycling or disposing of medical plastics.
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Frequently asked questions
Thermoset plastics, such as epoxy, phenolic, unsaturated polyester, and urethane, cannot be recycled as they contain polymers that form irreversible chemical bonds. Other non-recyclable plastics include cling film, blister packaging, plastic-coated wrapping paper, composite plastic, bioplastics, and polycarbonate.
Plastic straws, plastic bags, plastic cups, and polystyrene (Styrofoam) takeaway containers are non-recyclable. Plastic items used for personal hygiene, such as diapers, feminine hygiene products, and medical equipment, should also be disposed of in the trash.
Some plastics are non-recyclable because they are made from low-value plastic resins that cannot be separated or melted down. Other plastics, such as polystyrene, are non-biodegradable.
