5 in Plastic Recycling Options and Process

Plastic recycling is a complex process, but it's essential for reducing waste and conserving natural resources. In the United States alone, over 35 million tons of plastic waste are generated each year.

There are several plastic recycling options available, including mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, energy recovery, landfilling, and export. Each option has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Mechanical recycling involves breaking down plastics into smaller pieces and reusing them to make new products. This process can be repeated multiple times, but the quality of the final product decreases with each iteration.

Chemical recycling, on the other hand, uses chemicals to break down plastics into their raw materials, which can then be used to make new products. This process is still in its infancy but shows great promise for increasing the quality of recycled plastics.

Number 5 plastics are a type of plastic that's hard and heat resistant, often used in prescription medicine bottles, yogurt cups, and single-use cutlery.

The resin identification code on the bottom of a product, surrounded by chasing arrows, indicates that it's made of polypropylene, or PP for short.

You can find number 5 plastics in packaging for personal care products like deodorant, lotion, or shampoo, as well as in lids of single-use drink bottles.

These plastics were widely accepted in curbside and drop-off recycling centers before China's National Sword policy was introduced in 2018.

Lids of single-use drink bottles are often made of number 5 plastic, and a great deal of single-use laboratory and medical supplies at hospitals, clinics, and labs also use this type of plastic.

Number 5 plastics are being reintroduced in some curbside and drop-off programs, but films and bags remain a problem.

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Plastics come in many forms, but did you know that there are seven main types of plastics? These types are classified based on their chemical composition and properties.

Polyethylene is the most widely used plastic, accounting for over 30% of global plastic production. It's lightweight, flexible, and used in packaging, bags, and containers.

Polypropylene is another versatile plastic, used in car parts, medical devices, and even clothing. Its high melting point and resistance to chemicals make it a popular choice.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a type of plastic that's commonly used in pipes, vinyl records, and even flooring. It's durable and resistant to corrosion, but can be brittle and prone to cracking.

Polystyrene is known for its lightweight and insulating properties, making it ideal for packaging materials like Styrofoam cups and take-out containers.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a type of plastic used in car bumpers, phone cases, and other electronic components. Its high impact resistance and durability make it a popular choice for manufacturing.

Polyester is a type of plastic used in clothing, upholstery, and even fiberglass. It's known for its high strength, resistance to wrinkles, and ability to hold dye well.

Polyamide, also known as nylon, is a type of plastic used in clothing, carpets, and even toothbrushes. It's known for its high strength, resistance to abrasion, and ability to hold dyes well.

TerraCycle is a great option for recycling hard-to-recycle materials. They have a motto of "eliminating the idea of waste" and offer various programs to recycle a wide range of waste, including home and personal care products.

You can recycle number 5 plastics through TerraCycle, but you'll need to search their website for the best solution. Their Zero Waste Boxes for dairy tubs and lids are a good option.

If you're looking for a more general solution, the All-in-One Zero Waste Box can be used for any material, including number 5 plastics.

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ReCo's recycling process is a collaborative effort with Orange Recycling Services, a locally owned and operated company that has been serving the Triangle for over 34 years.

ReCollective partners with Orange Recycling Services to recycle #5 plastic. This partnership ensures that #5 plastic is recycled responsibly.

ReCo takes a thoughtful approach to recycling, working with a trusted and experienced local company to handle the process.

Rumpke accepts some plastics, but it's essential to check their specific guidelines.

For example, TerraCycle, a company that specializes in recycling hard-to-recycle materials, doesn't have a program for number 5 plastics, so it's not a reliable option for this type of plastic.

However, TerraCycle offers a few alternatives, including the Zero Waste Box for dairy tubs and lids, which can be used for #5 plastics.

Rumpke, on the other hand, might accept some plastics, but it's crucial to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

The All-in-One Zero Waste Box from TerraCycle is another option for recycling #5 plastics, but it comes with a fee, ranging from $92 to $241 for the smallest sizes.