Plastics with other numbers cannot be recycled. Why not? In most cases, items can’t be used again if they contain more than one type of plastic. That’s because, when the items are melted at the recycling center, the plastics contaminate each other. Instead, these items are sent to a landfill.
How about those plastic bottles that do arrive at a recycling center? First, workers separate the PET items from those made from HDPE. Then, they ensure that each item is clean. Those that aren’t may be thrown away—that’s why it’s important to rinse items before putting them in the recycling bin.
Once the plastics are separated and labels have been removed, they’re shredded. Those shreds are bound together and sold to processors who will use them to make new items. Once at a processing plant, the plastics are melted and then formed into small pellets. These are used to create new items.
What can be made from recycled plastic? One common product is new plastic bottles. Recycled plastic can also be used to make carpet, polyester clothing, and building materials. However, plastic loses a bit of its quality each time it’s recycled. Each piece can only be recycled two or three times before it must be thrown away.
That’s why it’s also important to reduce and reuse plastic. How can your family work to keep plastic out of landfills and bodies of water? Work with an adult family member to form a plan today!
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