Understanding Plastic Resin Codes: 2024 Guide

Have you ever wondered what those numbers inside the recycling symbols on plastic products mean? Those numbers are called Plastic Resin Identification Codes, or plastic resin codes.

These codes, ranging from #1 to #7, show what type of plastic you’re dealing with based on its chemical makeup. They help us sort and recycle plastics more effectively, which is crucial for reducing waste and protecting the environment.

Every year, the world produces about 381 million tonnes of plastic waste, and all of it falls into one of these seven categories.

Since plastic waste is expected to double by 2034, it’s important to understand which plastics can be recycled. Whether it’s a soft drink bottle, plastic pipe, styrofoam, or plastic straws, every plastic item will have one of these codes on it.

1. PET

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

Polyethylene terephthalate, or PET for short, is one of the most common types of plastic used around the world.

You’ll find PET in things like soft drink bottles, polyester clothing, and food and drink packaging. It’s clear, cheap, and lightweight, and it doesn’t react with food or water. Plus, it’s pretty easy to recycle.

PET products can definitely be recycled. Here’s what you might find made from PET:

• Soft drink bottles
• Mouthwash bottles
• Cooking oil bottles
• Clothing

How to Recycle PET:

One of the simplest plastics to recycle is PET. Just make sure the containers are empty and give them a quick rinse before tossing them in your recycling bin. You don’t need to remove the labels; special machines at the recycling facility will handle that.

What Happens to Recycled PET:

Once recycled, PET bottles are turned into small flakes, melted down, and spun into yarn. This yarn is then used to make things like clothing and shoes. You’ll often find PET-based fibers in activewear and outerwear because they’re durable and stretchy.

2. HDPE

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a type of plastic made from petroleum. It’s known for being tough and versatile, and it’s often used because it’s cheaper than metal or glass.

You’ll find HDPE in all sorts of everyday items like plastic bottles, milk jugs, butter tubs, bleach bottles, bottle caps, and pipes.

Can HDPE be recycled?

Yes, HDPE can be recycled. You can usually recycle it at home, work, or even while you’re out and about. However, not all HDPE items can be recycled at home—like thin plastic bags or film.

For those, many supermarkets and recycling centers have special drop-off points for plastic bags.

What happens to recycled HDPE?

Recycled HDPE is melted down and turned into small pellets. These pellets are then used to make new products like pens, plastic lumber, fences, tables, and more bottles.

3. PVC

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is the third most popular synthetic plastic because it’s so useful in many ways. It’s a cost-effective and flexible plastic, especially well-known for making door and window frames in the building and construction industry. You can also find PVC in many other areas like transport, packaging, electrical, and healthcare.

Most PVC products can’t be recycled. Here’s where you might see PVC:

• Doors and window frames
• Plastic pipes
• Plastic wire covers
• Cling film
• Plastic outdoor furniture

Why can’t PVC be recycled?

In most cases, it’s not possible. However, new technologies are making it possible to recycle some PVC products. Even so, recycling PVC is still complex and costly, so only a small amount gets collected and processed at recycling facilities.

4. LDPE

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is a thermoplastic made from ethylene, just like HDPE, but it has different properties. LDPE is known for being durable and flexible. It doesn’t release harmful chemicals, doesn’t break easily, and resists acids, bases, and oils. These traits make it useful in different ways compared to HDPE.

LDPE is commonly used for various packaging and containers. Here are some common uses:

• Sauce/condiment bottles
• Plastic films
• Plastic bags
• Bubble wrap
• Plastic tubing

LDPE products can sometimes be recycled. However, recycling the more flexible items like films and wraps can be tricky because they often get contaminated by the items they package. Rigid LDPE products are easier to recycle and can be recycled at home, work, or on the go.

The recycling process for LDPE is similar to HDPE. LDPE plastics are melted down and turned into pellets for making new plastic products. Recycled LDPE is often used to make plastic lumber, bin liners, plastic film, and rubbish or compost bins.

Also Read: Top 10 Recycling Mistakes and Tips in 2024

5. PP

Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene (PP), also called polypropene, is a strong, rigid plastic made from propene. It’s one of the most versatile plastics, used in many different ways both as a plastic and as a fiber. It’s tough, flexible, lightweight, and heat-resistant, making it ideal for many products. Plus, it’s generally considered a safer plastic.

PP products can sometimes be recycled. Here are some common uses:

• Medicine bottles
• Packaging
• Bottle caps
• Straws
• Plastic bags

Recycling PP can be tricky because it’s not as widely recycled as some other plastics. It’s best to check with your local authority or council to see if they recycle PP in your area. You can also refer to an A to Z recycling guide for more details. Efforts to improve PP recycling are ongoing.

Recycled PP has many uses, including:

• Rope
• Clothing fibers
• Industrial fibers
• Food containers
• Plastic trays

6. PS

Polystyrene (PS)

Polystyrene is a versatile plastic used in many everyday items. It’s rigid, brittle, and relatively hard with good electrical properties. However, it doesn’t handle chemicals or UV light well.

The most recognizable form of polystyrene is “expanded polystyrene,” which is used for packaging and insulation in the building industry.

PS products can sometimes be recycled. Here are some common uses:

• Egg cartons
• Take-away containers
• Disposable plates
• Plastic cutlery
• CD cases
• Styrofoam
• Car parts

Recycling PS can be challenging because it’s not commonly done. For example, expanded polystyrene should go in the general waste bin.

7. Other

Other & Miscellaneous

There’s no fancy name for plastic with the number 7 resin code because it’s a miscellaneous category. This category includes all plastics that don’t fit into the main six types. These plastics can be a mix of types 1-6 or other less common plastics.

Other plastic products can sometimes be recycled. Here are some examples:

• Polycarbonate
• Polylactide
• Acrylic
• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
• Fiberglass
• Nylon