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All about plastics

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Plastics  recycling rate

less than 9%

Scroll to see where the rest ends up.

Plastic Symbols

Understanding plastic codes helps in proper recycling. Click the numbers below.

An image of plastic #1, PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), which is widely recycled and used in products like water bottles
An image of plastic labeled #3, PVC, commonly used in pipes and flooring, which is not widely recycled.
plastic labeled #3, PVC, used in products like pipes and flooring, which is not widely recycled.
An image of plastic labeled #4, LDPE, used in items like grocery bags, which are not typically accepted in curbside recycling
Plastic #5, PP (Polypropylene), commonly used in items like yogurt containers, often accepted in curbside recycling
plastic #6, PS (Polystyrene), commonly used in foam cups and takeout containers, not widely accepted at curbside recycling
plastic labeled #7, other, a variety of plastics such as polycarbonate and bioplastics, often not widely recycled
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General Rule of Thumb in Recycling

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  1. Different Equipment & Capabilities – Not all recycling centers have the same technology to process materials. What one facility can recycle, another might not.

  2. Local Regulations – Cities, counties, and states have different rules about what materials can be recycled, how they should be sorted, and where they should be taken.

  3. Market Demand – Recycling is influenced by market conditions. Some materials (e.g., certain plastics) may not be accepted if there's no buyer for the recycled material.

  4. Contamination Risks – Recycling incorrectly (e.g., throwing in greasy pizza boxes or plastic bags) can contaminate entire batches, making them unrecyclable. Facilities have different standards on what they accept to minimize contamination.

  5. Curbside vs. Drop-off Programs – Some items (e.g., batteries, electronics, hazardous waste) may not be accepted in curbside bins but can be dropped off at special locations.

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Check out more on our recycling page.

You need to check recycling guidelines vary by location. 

Can't Find the Recycling Code?

Here's a general guide by product type. Local rules may vary.

 RESTRICTED Plastic products for Curbside Recycling

Bio-based plastics

An image showing bio-based plastics, such as PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates), which cannot be recycled

Compostable or bio-based plastics are

not typically recyclable. They should be composted or thrown away in the trash.

bio-based plastics, biodegradable plastics

ACCEPTED Plastic products for Curbside Recycling

PET Bottles

pet bottles, water bottles, plastic bottles, clear bottles

♳ PET – Polyethylene Terephthalate

✅ Accepted Items:

  • Water and soda bottles

  • Juice bottles

  • Salad dressing & condiment bottles

  • Peanut butter & food jars

❌ Not Accepted:

  • PET clamshell containers (many programs do not accept them)

  • Oily or heavily soiled containers

Microplastics

Microplastics (MPs) are tiny plastic particles, less than 5 mm in size, that are widespread pollutants in water, air, and soil. They originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items (secondary MPs) and direct sources like cosmetics and industrial pellets (primary MPs). MPs can absorb harmful environmental pollutants and may leach certain additives like BPA and phthalates under conditions like heat, sunlight, or weathering. Human exposure occurs through ingestion, inhalation, and contact, raising concerns about potential health and environmental impacts.

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