How to Recycle 3-7 Plastics

Recycling symbol

The number on the bottom of plastic items tells consumers what type of plastic it is. The type of plastic dictates if it can be recycled. Not all recycling centers take all types of plastic, so you need to check with the center before bringing plastic in. Each type of plastic is made differently and from a different chemical compound. The number system helps determine what types of plastics can be safely melted down and turned into new items.

Things You'll Need

• Medium-sizes plastics bins, trash cans or bags
• Trash can

Instructions

1. Locate your local recycling center. You can find the location by looking in a phone book or contacting the sanitation or utilities offices in your area. Ask what types of plastic they accept.

2. Set up plastic bins, trash cans or bags. Some centers require each type of plastic to be separated. Give each bin a number from 3 to 7. If your area does not require separation, use one bin, can or bag.

3. Empty all the bottles. Rinse out the bottles with water.

4. Turn the bottles upside down and locate the recycling sign. The recycling sign is a triangle made of curved arrows. In the middle of the sign, locate the number. Put the plastic item into the bin of the corresponding number. Continue with each bottle.

5. Take the sorted plastic to the recycling center.

References

• Waste Online: Plastics recycling