21 Jul What do the numbers on recyclable plastic items mean?

Do you know what the numbers on the bottom of recyclable items mean? 

Each number is a different kind of plastic that the item is made up of. 

#1 – PETE

#2 – HDPE

#3 – PVC

#4 – LDPE

#5 – PP

#6 – PS

#7 – Other

How do you recycle these items? 

The first step is to find out what your local recycling program accepts and doesn’t accept. In general though, plastic #’s 1, 2, and 5 can typically be recycled in curbside recycling programs. Plastic #3 may be accepted by some plastic lumber makers, or a local collection center.  A lot of stores will have a collection bin for plastic shopping bags made from plastic #4. Plastic #6 typically cannot be recycled, but local collection centers may take these items. Plastic #7 also typically cannot be recycled, so the best option is to follow your municipality’s advice for disposal instructions. 

Do your part to properly recycle plastic items!