Recycling Revealed
RUMOR
The number on the bottom of a plastic cup, bottle or container tells you how to use a product or package.
STATUS
Nonsense!
ORIGINS
Although its origins are uncertain, this misconception has shown up in spurious media reports as well as a few misinformed websites.
|
|
|
|
|
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
This rumor is false and potentially dangerous.
Many plastic items are marked with a resin ID code, usually a number (1 through 7) or a letter abbreviation, which indicates a particular type of plastic. The code is typically found on the bottom of a container and is often displayed inside a three-arrow recycling symbol. Resin ID codes are used to help identify different plastics for recycling, but they do not provide guidance on the safe or intended use of a product and should not be used for this purpose.
For reliable information on using a plastic product or package, be sure to consult the packaging label and any additional instructions that may be provided.
Things to remember:
- Use a product or package according to the instructions provided.
- Check the resin ID code and remember to recycle after use.
Note: Recycling facilities may not be available in all areas. Check to see if recycling facilities exist in your area.
|
|
|
|
|
|
MORE RESOURCES AND INFORMATION