The NYC Department of Sanitation accepts rigid plastics with the numbers 1 through 7, provided they are empty and clean. Resin Code Common Item Recyclability in NYC 1 (PETE) Soda bottles Accepted 2 (HDPE) Milk jugs Accepted 3 (PVC) Plumbing pipes Not accepted 4 (LDPE) Squeezable bottles Accepted 5 (PP) Yogurt cups Accepted 6 (PS) Takeout clamshells Accepted if clean 7 (Other) Certain large containers Accepted if clean The Challenges of Contamination and Market Fluctuations One of the most persistent issues facing the system is contamination, which occurs when non-recyclable items or dirty containers enter the bin.
Identifying Common Contaminants in NYC Recycling Streams
Understanding how the system works, what types of plastic are accepted, and the role of policy and technology is essential for residents and businesses. Caps can remain on bottles, but non-recyclable items like plastic bags, foam clamshells, and biodegradable plastics must be kept out of the recycling stream to prevent equipment jams.
Accepted Plastic Types and Identification Navigating resin identification codes is the first practical step for residents. This includes common items such as clear plastic bottles (typically #1 PETE), milk jugs (#2 HDPE), and food containers (#5 PP).
Identifying Common Contaminants in NYC Recycling Streams
These market fluctuations directly impact whether MRFs can profitably process the collected material, affecting the long-term viability of local programs. This guide breaks down the current landscape of plastic recovery in the five boroughs, moving beyond simple bin placement to examine the real-world process.
More About Nyc plastic recycling
Looking at Nyc plastic recycling from another angle can help expand the discussion and give readers a second clear paragraph under the same section.
More perspective on Nyc plastic recycling can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
