Plastic has become a part of our daily lives, but unfortunately, it is also one of the biggest contributors to environmental pollution. To reduce this negative impact, it is important for us to recycle plastic properly. However, with the different types and numbers of plastic codes used in recycling, understanding them can be overwhelming.
That’s why we at Recycling Specialties are here to provide you with all the necessary information about plastic codes and how to recycle them. We believe that by educating ourselves on proper recycling methods, we can make a positive change for our environment.
Let’s take a closer look at those numbers inside the chasing arrows symbol found on most plastic products.
What Are Plastic Codes?
Plastic codes, also known as Resin Identification Codes (RIC), are symbols found on the bottom of plastic containers. They were developed to help sort and identify different types of plastics for recycling purposes. The Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) first introduced them in 1988 and has since been adopted internationally.
Understanding Plastic Codes
The RIC system consists of seven numbers or letters surrounded by a triangle symbol, usually located on the bottom of plastic containers. These numbers range from 1 to 7 and represent different types of plastic materials used in manufacturing. Each number corresponds to a specific type of plastic, which has its own unique properties and characteristics.
Commonly Recycled Plastics In Barrie And Simcoe County
#1 PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Often used for clear water bottles, soft drink bottles, and some food packaging. PET is widely recycled in Barrie and Simcoe County. Clean your containers and recycle them loose (not bagged).
#2 HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): This strong plastic is used for milk jugs, laundry detergent bottles, and some rigid plastic containers. HDPE is also widely accepted in our area. Give them a quick rinse and recycle them loose.
Less Common Recyclables
#4 LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): This flexible plastic is used for grocery bags, bread bags, and some squeezable bottles. LDPE recycling varies across municipalities.
#5 PP (Polypropylene): This versatile plastic is used in bottle caps, yogurt containers, and some straws. Recycling programs for #5 plastics vary. Check with your local program to see if they accept it. If not, dispose of it in the garbage.
Plastics Typically Not Recycled in Barrie and Simcoe County
#3 PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): This plastic is often used in pipes and building materials. It’s not generally accepted in curbside recycling.
#6 PS (Polystyrene): This is the stiff plastic used in takeout containers, packaging materials, and meat trays. #6 Plastics are not typically recycled in our region. Check with your local program, but generally, these belong in the garbage.
#7 Other: This category includes various plastics not covered by the other codes. They are rarely accepted in curbside recycling.
Tips for Effective Recycling
Check Your Local Guidelines: Recycling programs can differ slightly between municipalities. Always refer to the guidelines provided by your local waste collection service.
Rinse Containers: A quick rinse removes food residue and helps the recycling process.
Recycle Loose: No need to bag your recyclables. Plastic bags can contaminate the recycling stream.
Keep it Clean: Contaminated recyclables may be rejected. If a container is too greasy or dirty, dispose of it in the garbage.
Use the Right Bins: Make sure you are using the correct bins for different types of recyclables. For example, paper and cardboard should go in a separate bin from plastic and glass. If you are unsure, use this Waste Item Lookup tool.
Use Recycling Specialties: If your area does not have a recycling program, you have more specific recycling needs, or materials not accepted by municipal recycling, such as metal recycling, Recycling Specialties is a perfect solution.
Recycling is a crucial part of living a sustainable lifestyle. By properly disposing of our waste, we can help decrease the amount of pollution in our environment and conserve valuable resources. However, not all materials can be recycled,
Recycling Specialties: Committed to Our Community
At Recycling Specialties, we are committed to responsible waste management solutions. We process a wide variety of recyclables, and we’re constantly working to improve our services. By understanding plastic codes and following proper recycling practices, we can all help protect our environment in Barrie, Simcoe County, and beyond.
We hope this information has been helpful! If you have any questions about plastic recycling in Barrie or Simcoe County, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Recycling Specialties.
