Alexei Volkov
Plastic containers are notoriously difficult to recycle. If you're looking to dispose of plastic containers, you'll need to check with your local recycling program to see what's accepted in your area. Many curbside recycling programs are not equipped to handle plastic containers, especially larger ones. However, some local governments and private companies do run specialized recycling programs that accept these items. If your containers are still in good shape, you might consider donating them to thrift stores, charities, schools, or childcare centers, or listing them online for free.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic containers recycling process | Check for the universal recycling symbol (three arrows in the shape of a triangle) with a number 1, 2, or 5 inside. Clean and dry the containers before recycling. |
| Reusing plastic containers | Plastic containers can be reused for storage in various places around the house, such as the garage, shed, car boot, or under the stairs. They can also be used for stationery, crafts, plants, or storing makeup and bathroom essentials. |
| Disposal options | Check with local government websites, county departments, or waste management agencies for specific disposal guidelines. Some private companies and local charities also accept plastic containers for recycling or reuse. |
| Cutting and disposal | Large plastic containers can be cut into smaller pieces using a hacksaw, wood saw, or scissors, then disposed of in contractor-grade trash bags. |
| Recycling programs | Curbside recycling programs may accept specific types of plastic containers, typically those that are smaller and commonly used for food or laundry products. |
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What You'll Learn
Check local recycling programs
When it comes to disposing of plastic containers, it's important to check your local recycling programs to ensure you're following the correct procedures for your area. Recycling guidelines can vary from place to place, so it's essential to be aware of the specific rules and regulations in your community. Here are some steps you can take to navigate plastic container disposal effectively:
- Curbside Recycling Programs: Many local governments offer curbside recycling programs that accept specific types of plastic containers. However, it's important to note that not all plastic containers are recyclable through these programs. For instance, plastic storage bins are often too large for curbside recycling bins, and they may not be accepted by your local program. Always check the guidelines provided by your local waste management authority to understand what types of plastic containers can be recycled curbside.
- Alternative Drop-off Locations: Some counties have alternative locations where you can take plastic items for recycling. These locations might be government-organized or run by private companies. For example, Newton, MA, and Santa Cruz are known for accepting plastic storage containers among their difficult-to-recycle items. You can search online or in your local phone book for nearby recycling centers or refer to online tools like Recycle Nation's Recycle Search to locate recyclers near you.
- Department of Sanitation or Environmental Protection: Checking the websites of your local Department of Sanitation or Department of Environmental Protection can provide valuable insights. These departments often have information regarding plastic recycling guidelines and proper disposal methods for non-recyclable plastics. They can guide you on how and where to recycle or dispose of your plastic containers responsibly.
- Store Drop-off Programs: Certain retailers sponsor store drop-off programs that collect plastic bags and other flexible plastic packaging. Look for the How2Recycle Store Drop-off label on flexible polyethylene-based plastics, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE, or #2 plastic) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE, or #4 plastic). Remember to clean and dry these plastics before dropping them off.
- Subscription Services and Community Initiatives: Some communities offer subscription services through specialty recyclers for a monthly fee. Additionally, certain municipalities have initiatives like the Hefty ReNew™ program, which allows consumers to recycle alternative plastics curbside. Keep an eye out for community collection bins in public parking lots or community centers for flexible plastic films.
- Reuse and Donation: Before considering disposal, remember that plastic containers are often highly reusable. Thrift stores, local charities, childcare centers, senior centers, and schools may appreciate donations of plastic storage containers in good condition. Online platforms like Freecycle or local material exchange websites can also help you find individuals or organizations in need of such containers.
Remember, recycling practices can vary significantly from one place to another. Always check with your local recycling programs and authorities to ensure you're disposing of plastic containers in the most environmentally responsible way possible.
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Reuse plastic containers
Plastic containers are hard to recycle and, depending on where you live, you may need to dispose of them in a landfill. However, there are many ways to reuse plastic containers.
If your plastic containers are in good condition, you can donate them to thrift stores, local charities, childcare centres, senior centres, and schools. You can also list them on websites such as Freecycle or an online material exchange in your area.
You can also reuse plastic containers in your home. For example, you can use pill bottles to store shampoo, conditioner, or lotion when travelling. Tall, thin containers can be used to store pens, pencils, and markers. Old peanut butter jars can be used to store leftover paint.
There are also crafty ways to reuse plastic containers. For example, you can create Halloween decorations, snowflake designs, or a jet pack for a toddler's Halloween costume.
If you are going to reuse plastic containers for food storage, it is important to be cautious. Avoid reusing containers that look worn out or discoloured. It is also best to keep cold or room-temperature foods in them and avoid anything acidic or saucy, as this can encourage leaching. Heat will also make plastic more likely to leach chemicals, so avoid putting plastic containers in the microwave or dishwasher.
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Sell or donate containers
If you are looking to sell or donate your plastic containers, there are several options available to you.
Donating Containers
The WasteShed is an organization with two locations, in Chicago and Evanston, that accepts donations of art, craft, and school materials, including containers such as mason jars, tins, buckets, and film canisters. They also accept donations of fabric, office supplies, party supplies, and metal/hardware. You can drop off your donations in person, but it is recommended that you call ahead to ensure that the location is accepting the items you wish to donate.
Local charities, such as Open Books in Chicago, are another option for donating containers. Open Books accepts donations of books, CDs, and DVDs, which they sell to fund literacy programs for young readers. Other Chicago charities, such as the YWCA, accept a wide range of household items, including containers, which they either sell or provide directly to local families in need.
Selling Containers
If you are interested in selling your plastic containers, you can contact companies such as Delta Containers Group and Green Processing Company Inc. Delta Containers Group purchases various types of plastic, including plastic drums, buckets, IBC inner bottles, Jerrican containers, and farm plastic. They also sell recycled plastic in different grades and colours.
Green Processing Company Inc. operates recycling and container management facilities in Canada and the United States. They specialize in container reconditioning and sell, lease, and recycle plastic bulk containers. Their containers are made from HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) or PP (Polypropylene) and are fully recyclable.
Another option for selling containers is Container Exchanger, an online marketplace that facilitates the resale of new and used industrial containers, including plastic industrial totes and pallets. They serve buyers and sellers across North America and offer a range of container types, such as bulk containers, metal storage bins, and wire baskets.
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Cut containers into smaller pieces
Plastic containers are hard to recycle, and they usually cannot be disposed of in your curbside recycling bin. Before cutting your plastic containers, check your local programs to confirm what is recyclable in your area. If your plastic containers are still in good shape, you can take them to thrift stores, local charities, childcare centers, senior centers, or schools.
If you need to cut your plastic containers into smaller pieces, the best tool to use depends on the type of plastic you plan on cutting. For thin plastics, like water bottles, you can use scissors or a small knife. For thick plastics, you can use a hacksaw, fine-toothed saw, jigsaw, or table saw. If you use a saw, start by clamping the plastic to a workbench or holding it firmly. Then, use the full length of the blade and move the saw in quick, smooth, back-and-forth motions. You can also drill small holes along the line you want to cut to weaken the plastic before cutting.
If you want to cut the container along a specific line, you can use the scribing method. First, draw a line where you want to cut using a straight edge, ruler, or marking pen. Then, move your plastic sheet so that the line is on the edge of your table, and place a heavy straight edge parallel to the line.
Surprisingly, you can also cut plastic with strong sewing thread. Secure the plastic to a firm surface with clamps or tape, and wrap the thread around the section you want to cut. Then, pull the thread back and forth in rapid, short movements. The pressure and friction will heat the plastic, allowing you to snap it off.
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Check for recycling symbols
When disposing of plastic containers, it is important to check for recycling symbols to ensure proper disposal. The "chasing arrows" symbol with a number inside, often enclosed in a triangle, indicates the type of plastic and helps determine its appropriate disposal route. Here are some common recycling symbols and their meanings:
- PETE or PETG (Symbol 1): This stands for polyethylene terephthalate, commonly used for soft drink bottles, mineral water containers, fruit juice containers, and cooking oil containers. It is relatively safe and recyclable.
- HDPE (Symbol 2): High-density polyethylene is widely used for containers such as milk jugs, detergent bottles, and cleaning agent containers due to its low weight and high strength. It is easily recyclable and accepted by most curbside recycling programs.
- PVC (Symbol 3): Polyvinyl chloride is found in bubble foil, trays for sweets and fruit, sewage pipes, and synthetic window frames.
- LDPE (Symbol 4): Low-density polyethylene is used for soft plastics like cling film, plastic bags, and dry cleaner covers.
- PP (Symbol 5): Polypropylene is considered safe for reuse, but its recyclability varies by location. It is used for items like plastic furniture, jerry cans, car parts, and bottle tops.
- Polystyrene (Symbol 6): Polystyrene is commonly used in toys, packing, refrigerator trays, cosmetic bags, and vending cups. While it is not accepted by all curbside recycling programs, it can be recycled into new products such as egg cartons and takeout containers.
- Other Plastics (Symbol 7): This category includes plastics such as acrylic, polycarbonate, polylactic fibers, nylon, and fiberglass. These plastics may or may not be recyclable, depending on your local recycling program. Acrylic, for example, is often used in food storage containers and signage due to its strength and transparency.
It is always a good idea to check with your local recycling facilities or government websites to confirm which specific plastic types they can process. Additionally, remember to properly clean and dry plastic containers before placing them in the recycling bin to avoid contaminating other recyclables.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic containers can be reused in a variety of ways, including for storage in your home, garage, or shed. If you want to recycle them, check for the universal recycling symbol—three arrows in the shape of a triangle. If you see a 1 or 2, your local recycling program will likely accept it. If you see a 5, check with your local recycling service. If the container is significantly damaged, you may need to dispose of it as waste.
If your plastic containers don't have a recycling symbol, check with your local government, as some counties have alternative places to take plastic items for recycling. You can also check with private companies that run recycling programs or use an online tool like Recycle Nation’s Recycle Search to locate recyclers near you.
Before recycling your plastic containers, make sure they are empty, clean, and dry. If you need to cut the containers into smaller pieces, you can use a hacksaw, a wood saw, or scissors. Avoid cutting through whitish lines, as these will be harder to cut through. Place the pieces into a contractor-grade trash bag and put it out for collection.
