These days, many people are making an environmentally conscious effort to reduce their consumption of single-use plastics. When it does come time to dispose of a plastic item, a great way to reduce landfill waste is by recycling items like plastic water bottles, plastic bags, and straws. Here’s a closer look at three common plastic types, and how they’re recycled.

3 Different Plastic Types & How They’re Recycled

1. PET or PETE

Polyethylene Terephthalate or Number 1 plastics are often used for food containers, microwavable meal trays, and bottles for mouthwash, salad dressing and soda. It has a tendency to absorb the flavor of the liquid it holds, as well as bacteria. When recycled, PET plastics can be used to create furniture, Polar fleece, carpeting, and additional containers.

2. HDPE

High Density Polyethylene is one of the most popular plastics to recycle, thanks to its enhanced durability. This Number 2 plastic is resistant to temperature fluctuations and safe for contact with food. HDPE plastic is often used to make yogurt tubs, cleaning product containers, shampoo bottles, and milk jugs. When recycled, it can be used to create flooring tile, fencing materials, pens, picnic tables, and more.

3. PVC

While it is more commonly referred to as vinyl, polyvinyl chloride or PVC is a type of plastic. It is used to create plastic wrap, tiles, credit cards, piping, and even medical equipment. It can also be found in some food packaging, such as cooking oil bottles. This plastic is known to release dangerous chemicals, which can affect the hormonal system and cause bone and liver diseases. That’s why it’s usually recycled to create cables, panels, gutters, and other items that don’t contain food.

If you’re looking to recycle your PET, HDPE, or PVC plastics, take them to Island Recycling Inc. of Kapolei, HI. They have been accepting plastics and reducing the local carbon footprint since 1984. They work with residential and commercial customers alike, and they operate from three different locations. Whether you have plastic, scrap metal, paper, or tires to dispose of, you can do so properly and responsibly with their help. To learn more about their accepted materials, call (808) 682-9200 today.