Baby Lightweight

December 162008

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The recycling numbers embossed on the bottom of plastic bottles and recyclable plastic bags are not necessarily the solution to the plastic problem. Plastics are labeled with numbers 1 through 7; only numbers one and two are easily and efficiently recycled of the seven types of plastic that are stamped as "recyclable".

With the Halloween season in full swing, consumers in increasing numbers are being "plastic-conscious" with costumes, candy wrappers, and Halloween bags by keeping in mind that recycling, no matter how little we each recycle, combines to make a big difference.

The plastic problem has no simple solution, but there are ways that the consumer can help. For instance, "precycling" is the practice of considering your packaging before you buy. Make sure your plastic is number 1 or 2 before buying. If it isn't, consider a different product choice. And by reusing paper and trade show bags you can further reduce plastic waste that goes into landfills and ocean dumping. Here is the recyclable number labels breakdown:

Number 1 is pretty easily recycled: Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE). It is often clear, relatively lightweight (or thinner) and is used in: mouthwash containers, soda bottles, salad dressing containers, plastic food jars, water bottles,

Number 2, also easy to recycle, is High density polyethylene (HDPE), is used in heavier containers like: milk jugs, snack food containers, laundry detergent containers, shampoo bottles, detergent bottles

We run into problems with numbers 3 though 7. If you have tried to take any of these to your local recycling center you may have wondered why they won't take them. These plastics are difficult to recycle.

Number 3 - Polyvinyl chloride (V or Vinyl PVC), used to make: shower curtains, cooking oil bottles, pipe and pipe fittings, medical tubing,

Number 4 - Low density polyethylene (LDPE), often colored, is used to make: sandwich storage and "zipper" bags, grocery and vegetable/meat bags, plastic wrapping paper, squeezable ketchup and mustard bottles

Number 5 - Polypropylene (PP), also often colored, is used for: tubs of butter, cookie dough, whipped topping, tupperware containers, yogurt and gelatin containers, pancake and chocolate syrup bottles

Number 6 - Polystyrene (PS), is used in: "To - Go" food containers, egg cartons, disposable cups, bowls and plates, styrofoam containers, packing peanuts

Number 7 - Which includes a miscellany of all other plastics, which include: fast food beverage containers, baby bottles, cell phones, CDs, electronics casings, sports water bottles

Reuse & Repurpose: If you must use plastic, find creative ways to reuse and repurpose it. There is a wealth of information on this topic available on the Internet about plastic bags recycling. For more information about recycling in your area, contact your local plastic recycling experts to learn more.

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