The Society of the Plastics Industry introduced its Resin identification coding system in 1988 at the urging of recyclers around the country. This system was introduced to make separation of the many similar-appearing plastic resin types easier for recycling centers across the country. These symbols appear on containers, usually on the bottom. Less then 10% of plastics are recycled. The vast majority end up in land-fills. The length of time for them to degrade is presently unknown since plastics have not been in existence long enough to ascertain this. Please refer to the links for further information regarding these plastics.
PET,PETE- Polyethylene Terphthalate Thermoplastic polymer resin of polyester family. More easily recycled because usually just this resin and not combined with others. Break-down product primarily carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.
HDPE- High Density Polyethylene
Polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. Good recyclability due to available facilities to handle this material.
PVC- Polyvinyl Chloride
Thermoplastic polymer containing chlorine. May contain additional chemicals judged harmful like phthalates,vinyl chloride monomers. More difficult to recycle.
LDPE-Low Density Polyethylene
Thermoplastic made from oil.
PP-Polypropylene
Thermoplastic polymer
PS- Polystyrene
Hydrocarbon produced from petroleum. Minimal recyclability due to few facilities that can handle it.
Other - All other plastics,that are not in the other categories like fiberglass, acrylic.
