Plastic Recycling

Plastics are especially troublesome, as different types of plastic require different processing to be reformulated and re-used as raw material.

Recyclable plastic will have a marking somewhere on it that states it can be recycled. You should find this on the container (underneath usually) & a number where applicable. Most plastics can be recycled it’s just that some may need to be processed before a manufacturer will look to use it. It is easier to look at what is unacceptable or not recyclable – if it doesn’t have a recyclable label then it usually can’t be recycled.

Download this handy guide on PET numbering

It is not necessary to wash bottles when collecting as you’re wasting water. It will make a difference, however, as they can start smelling if you store them at home for a period of time. You can also flatten the bottles in order to make more space for them.

What about bottle caps? You can remove them for safety – bottles can expand due to pressure build up. There are companies that will recycle them so consider keeping them even if you do remove them.