Recycling is a crucial step in reducing waste and conserving our environment, but did you know that not all plastics are created equal? Different types of plastics have different recycling processes and requirements. In this guide, we’ll provide practical examples of how to separate different types of plastics for recycling so you can contribute to a cleaner planet. Let’s dive into some easy-to-follow examples!
Many of us use plastic grocery bags, but did you know they can’t be recycled in your curbside bin? Instead, they need to be separated and taken to a designated recycling location.
To separate grocery bags for recycling, start by gathering all the plastic bags you have at home. Check your local grocery stores as many have drop-off bins specifically for plastic bags. It’s essential to ensure that these bags are clean and dry. Rinse them out if needed and remove any labels or stickers. Once you have a substantial amount, simply drop them off at the designated recycling bin during your next grocery run. This not only keeps them out of landfills but also helps create new products from recycled materials.
Notes: Some stores may also accept other types of plastic film, like bread bags or produce bags; check for specific guidelines.
Plastic bottles and jars are common items in our recycling bins, but it’s important to know how to sort them correctly. Different types of plastics have different recycling codes, which are usually found on the bottom of the containers.
Start by collecting all your plastic bottles (like water, soda, and shampoo bottles) and jars (like condiment jars). Look at the recycling codes on the bottom: typically, plastics with codes #1 (PETE) and #2 (HDPE) are widely accepted in curbside recycling. Rinse out any residue and remove any caps or lids, as they often need to be recycled separately. After cleaning, toss the bottles and jars into your curbside recycling bin, ensuring they’re all labeled with the correct codes.
Notes: Caps and lids may be made from different types of plastics, so check with your local recycling guidelines to see if they should be recycled together or separately.
Many everyday items like yogurt tubs, takeout containers, and deli containers are made from plastic, but they often end up in landfills if not sorted properly.
To prepare these for recycling, start by collecting all your plastic tubs and containers. Check the recycling codes as you collect; most tubs are made from #5 (PP) plastic, which might not be accepted in all curbside programs. Rinse them to remove any food residue, as contamination can lead to entire batches of recyclables being thrown away. Once cleaned, check with your local recycling program whether they accept these types of plastics. If they do, simply add them to your recycling bin. If not, consider looking for local drop-off centers that might accept them.
Notes: Some facilities have special programs for #5 plastics, so don’t hesitate to ask your local recycling authority for more information.