Plastics
According to a new survey from Republic Services, despite high confidence levels in their knowledge, most consumers lack an understanding of proper recycling practices, particularly for plastics. In fact, confusion about which plastics should be recycled is leading some to forgo it altogether – at a time when demand for recycled plastics has never been stronger.
As major brands set ambitious targets for recycled content in their packaging and states adopt minimum recycled content standards the demand for high-quality recycled plastics will only grow – but the current supply of the right types of recycled plastics falls short.
The survey analyzed the recycling knowledge and habits of more than 2,000 U.S. consumers. While nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of respondents said they know what types of plastics can be recycled, 61 percent incorrectly believe flexible plastics, including grocery bags and bubble wrap, are recyclable in their curbside bins.
As for recycling habits, water bottles, milk jugs and laundry detergent jugs are some of the most widely acceptable recyclables, yet consumers aren’t always recycling them. When asked about which items they consistently recycle:
- 62 percent of consumers recycle water bottles
- 51 percent recycle milk jugs
- 43 percent recycle laundry detergent jugs
Republic Services is committed to educating consumers on the proper ways to recycle so good intentions aren’t wasted. When recycling plastics:
- Focus on recycling hard plastics, such as bottles, jugs and tubs, that are labeled #1, #2 or #5
- Do not recycle flexible plastics, including grocery bags, plastic wrappers or bubble wrap
- Do not bag your recyclables
- Always ensure recyclables are empty, clean and dry
- Always remember to check with your service provider on what they accept, as recycling materials vary by location
