How to Recycle Number Six Plastic

Recycling Symbol

Plastic number 6 is also known as polystyrene, and is commonly known as the trademarked Styrofoam. Traditionally, polystyrene has been difficult to recycle because its size makes it hard to store. However, more and more recycling plants are starting to accept the polystyrene as advances in recycling technology emerge. One of the best ways to recycle polystyrene plastic products is to reuse them in creative ways. You can still try to find the nearest number 6 plastic recycling facility if you have no use for the polystyrene products.

Instructions

1. Save the commercial packaging peanuts included in packages you receive. Store the packaging peanuts in a dry location out of the way (such as a basement, or an attic). Reuse the packaging peanuts on fragile items that you ship such as glassware or porcelain. You can also break down larger pieces of polystyrene packaging and store it for further use as packing insulation.

2. Use the polystyrene for home craft projects. Small pieces of plastic foam can be used to stuff the bottom of planters for fake plants. Larger pieces of polystyrene can be cut into sculptures. In addition, packaging peanuts can be used for kids craft projects, such as gluing them in a picture of sky to make 3D clouds.

3. Donate polystyrene to local charities, schools, or businesses. Be sure that all packaging materials are clean and free of non-polystyrene plastic. Call the organization beforehand to see if it has use for polystyrene packaging materials. Make plans to drop off the materials at a designated drop off location. Craft stores or art programs might accept larger pieces of polystyrene as a donation.

4. Call a local mailing facility and ask if they are interested in accepting polystyrene packaging materials. Oftentimes package distributors will be willing to reuse the packaging. The more packaging materials you have, the more interested the mailing facility is likely to be. If you have a lot of packaging materials, you might be able to get the company to come pick up the materials for you.

5. Call local recycling outlets and inquire if they are capable of recycling number 6 plastic. If not, try other recycling facilities. If so, inquire about how you can deliver your number 6 plastic recyclables. Be sure to write down any pertinent information they may give you, such as hours of operation, and where to drop off the materials.

References

• Earth 911: Tips on Recycling Plastic #6
• The Daily Green: Recycling Symbols on Plastics