Plastic Resin Codes
Plastic resin codes, also know as plastic recycling numbers, show what type of plastic an item is made of. Resin codes are a helpful tool to figure out if your item is recyclable or not, but may not help you answer definitively. We recommend sending us an email or message, or looking for a How2Recycle.info label on the packaging instead! Let’s break down what each plastic resin code means…
Plastic #1 PETE/PET
Plastic #1 is recyclable at the WWRA and includes items like clamshell containers, disposable water and pop bottles, food packaging, and detergent bottles. Plastic #1 is shipped to Tabb Packaging in Plymouth where it is washed and shredded into pellets. The pellets are then used to make new bottles and clothing.
Plastic #2 HDPE
Plastic #2 is recyclable at the WWRA and is a more durable plastic used for cleaning supply and cosmetic packaging, outdoor furniture, and plastic crates. To recycle plastic #2 correctly, rinse all products out and make sure bulky items are broken down enough to fit in WWRA bins. Plastic #2 is shipped to Tabb Packaging in Plymouth where it is washed and shredded into pellets. These pellets are then used to make new bottles and clothing.
Plastic #3 PVC/V
Some plastic #3 is recyclable at the WWRA, including shampoo bottles, cleaning sprays, and cooking oil containers. Make sure all products are rinsed out of plastic containers before recycling. Plastic #3 is shipped to Brightmark Plastics (Ashley, IN) where it is cleaned, shredded, and resold into the market.
Plastic #4 LDPE
Plastic #4 is recyclable at the WWRA, including water bottles, flexible cosmetic packaging, and condiment containers. Make sure all products are rinsed out of plastic containers before recycling. Plastic #4 is shipped to Brighmark Plastics (Ashley, IN) where it is cleaned, shredded, and resold into the market.
Plastic #5 PP
Plastic #5 is recyclable at the WWRA and includes yogurt containers, to-go cups, reusable plastic plates, and plastic lids. Make sure all products are rinsed out of plastic containers before recycling, and remember, plastic flatware is NOT recyclable. Plastic #5 is shipped to Brightmark Plastics (Ashley, IN) where it is cleaned, shredded, and resold into the market.
Plastic #6 PS
#6 RIGID plastics like cups, lids, and CD cases are recyclable, but not all polystyrene is recyclable. NEVER recycle #6 flexible foams like to go containers, egg cartons, and foam cups. Plastic #6 is shipped to Brightmark Plastics (Ashley, IN) where it is cleaned, shredded, and resold into the market.
Plastic #7 Other/PC
Symbol #7 includes plastics that do not fit into the label of plastics #1-#6. This may mean mixed plastics used in lids, rigid reusable water bottles, cosmetics containers, and much more. If you’re ever unsure about an unmarked plastic or plastic #7, send us a message or email wwraeduoutreach@gmail.com. Plastic #7 is shipped to Brightmark Plastics (Ashley, IN) where it is cleaned, shredded, and resold into the market.