Learn About the Types of Plastics That Can Be Recycled

Recycling is extremely important when it comes to the environment, especially for plastics. They are everywhere, no matter where you look, yet in 2010 less than 10% of the plastics used ever made it to a recycler. Plastics are actually in high demand for recycling however, because they can be used to make new and more durable objects, including things like clothing and furniture. Acquaint yourself with the recycling symbols on your plastic containers and you’ll know which plastics can be recycled to help protect the environment. The number denoting each type below corresponds to the little number found inside the recycling symbol on the package, and listed under each type are some of the items where they are commonly found.

1.       PET or PETE

Polyethylene terephthalate is most commonly found in various drink bottles, peanut butter jars and cooking oil containers.

2.       HDPE

High density polyethylene is most often found in milk and juice bottles, butter and yogurt containers, and bottles for household cleaners.

3.       V or PVC

Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride can be found in containers for household cleaners, but also health and beauty items, medical equipment and vinyl siding.

4.       LDPE

Low density polyethylene is common in squeezable bottles and shopping bags, but it can also be found in more durable items such as carpet and furniture.

5.       PP

Polypropylene is often used to make medicine bottles, bottle caps, straws and some food containers.

6.       PS

Polystyrene is used for take-out containers, compact disc cases and disposable tableware.

7.       Other

These are usually heavy duty items such as gasoline containers, DVDs and computer housings.

Recycled plastics can be made into a wide variety of things, from flooring to lumber to trash cans. Furthermore, many of them can also be recycled right back into what they were before.

To find out more about plastic recycling in Milpitas, please visit this website.