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Plastic production consumes 8% of the earth’s fossil fuels. The amount of saved energy in making one recycled plastic bottle can light a 60-watt bulb for 6 hours. Annually, 38 billion plastic bottles are disposed of globally, but only 20% get recycled. The rest clog landfills for another 700 years before they decompose. People are now conscious of these ever-increasing environmental issues. Eco-friendliness and recycling is catching on; every little bit done at home or at work helps. For tips on how to properly recycle plastics, contact your local Connecticut garbage company.

Products Made of Recycled Plastic

Many useful products can be made of recycled plastic in Connecticut, depending on its resin content:

The tough high density polyethylene (HDPE) is used in piping, milk jugs and beverage bottles. After recycling, this plastic can be converted into pails, pipes, detergent containers, and motor oil bottles.

Low density polyethylene (LDPE) has strength, flexibility, and partial transparency; it finds use in squeezable bottles, toys, typewriter ribbon, and bags for garments, groceries, and garbage. It can be recycled into new trash bags or pallets.

The rigidity of polyethylene tephthalate (PET) varies based on its thickness. Soft drink bottles, the thin Mylar film, and food packaging are recycled into carpeting, fiberfill, and containers and bottles for items other than food.

Innovative Products

Recycled plastic in Connecticut has been made into innovative products like cellular phones, customized signboards and garden composters. A high-quality polyester fiber can also be made from it; this is then used in fabrics, clothes, blankets, throws, carpets and home furnishings.

Plastic Recycling Tips

• Dispose of plastic in the correct recycling bin as designated by the waste removal company in Connecticut, by following the recycling code.
• Ask the local waste management department for the acceptable products in plastic refuse and recycling processes.
• It is important to remove the caps of plastic containers and bottles, as well as rinse and crush them before sending them off for recycling.
• If a plastic recycling bin is not available for your waste while on the move, bring it home for proper disposal.
• When buying plastic products, give preference to those made through recycling, as labeled on the product.

Key Takeaways:

• Plastic production requires a lot of energy and resources.
• Plastics can be recycled into new materials; the specific material it can be made into depends on its resin content.
• Products made of recycled plastic are labeled as such and should be given preference over products that do not use recycled materials.

Need Help?

If you’re interested in recycling plastics but are having trouble getting started, contact us today!

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*Photo courtesy of www.freedigitalphotos.net