What does that number in the recycle symbol mean?
When you look at a plastic product and see the recycling symbol, you will notice that there is also a little number inside the recycle logo to identify what kind of plastic it is made from. The number can help you determine how the plastic will be recycled and if it is curbside recyclable. 1. PET(E)–Polyethylene Terephthalate • Easily recycled and picked up by most curbside recycling programs • Commonly used for: soft drink and water bottles, salad dressing and vegetable oil bottles, peanut butter jars, etc. • Properties: Inexpensive, lightweight, tough, clear, strong, gas & water barrier 2. HDPE–High Density Polyethylene • Accepted by most curbside recycling programs • A very versatile plastic that can be recycled into many goods • Commonly used for: milk jugs, juice bottles, household cleaner bottles, shampoo bottles, some trash and shopping bags, cereal box liners, etc. • Properties: stiff, strong, resists moisture, gas permeable 3. PVC–Polyvinyl Chloride • Mainly recycled indust
