PLASTIC RECYCLING – WHAT PRODUCTS CAN YOU RECYCLE?
Changes in legislation and developments in plastic recycling processes can cause confusion when determining which of your plastic products can be recycled.
Eco Recycling are commercial plastic recycling specialists and we’ve put together this guide to help businesses ascertain which of their redundant materials can be recycled.
What are plastics?
Plastics are chains of molecules linked together. These chains are called polymers, which is why many plastics begin with “poly”. Polymers are often made of carbon and hydrogen and sometimes oxygen, nitrogen, sulphur, chlorine, fluorine, phosphorous, or silicon. The term “plastics” means the combination of these various polymers.
Types of Plastic
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is the most common plastic. Approximately 80 million tonnes are produced annually, and its most common use is for packaging. Polyethylene comes in two densities, low and high.
Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
LDPE was the first polyethylene to be produced. LDPE is impact-resistant, waterproof and holds its own against many hazardous chemicals.
Applications: Plastic bags, plastic wrap, dispensing bottles, pliable parts such as snap-on lids, tubing, produce bags, cereal box liners
Recycled into: Shipping envelopes, floor tiles, panelling, furniture, rubbish bins
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE is a polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. It’s lightweight but very strong, resistant to impact, long-lasting, weather resistant and easily moulded.
Applications: Food storage containers, plastic bags, plastic bottles, water pipes, dispensing bottles, fuel tanks, fireworks
Recycled into: Recycled plastic storage containers, garden furniture, playground equipment, vehicle parts, rubbish bins, plastic lumber, stationery
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
PET is clear, hardy and an effective moisture barrier. Known as polyester when woven into fabric, its main application is in plastic bottles which accounts for 30% of its demand. It is the most widely recycled plastic in the world.
Applications: Most plastic drinks bottles, condiment bottles and jars, frozen food trays, toiletry bottles, tape applications, clothing, carpeting
Recycled into: Clothing such as fleece jackets and leggings, bottles, vehicle upholstery, carpeting, luggage, industrial strapping, automotive parts, new PET containers
Baled polyethylene film
Polyethylene film, also known as poly film, is the sheet version of polyethylene used in both domestic and industrial applications. Its main role is protection.
Applications: Garment protection, flooring and counter top protection in construction, roofing, sealing off rooms, protection of building materials
Recycled into: Most commonly used for making polythene bags and film wrap for food and material packaging
Other products suitable for plastic recycling
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)
ABS is a thermoplastic polymer that has no true melting point. Instead of burning, ABS liquifies which means it can be easily injection-moulded and recycled.
Applications: Computer keyboard keys, wall sockets, LEGO, drain pipes, golf club heads, helmets, electrical enclosures, small kitchen appliances, toys
Recycled into: Because virgin ABS is so expensive, recycled ABS is blended with virgin ABS to create the same products as mentioned above
Acrylic
Acrylic is mostly used in sheet form in industrial and commercial environments and processes. It is extremely durable. Polymethyl Methacrylate acrylic, or PMMA, is the most common acrylic.
Applications: Signage and displays, point of sale, tubing, lenses, lighting, medical devices, windows for swimming pools and dive pools, aquariums, helmet visors
Recycled into: Soundproof windows and doors, telephone booths, baby incubators, surgical devices, cosmetics, signs, light boxes, cars doors and windows
Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is a thermostatic polymer that is slightly harder and more heat resistant than polyethylene. It is the second most common plastic after polyethylene.
Applications: Automotive parts, hinges on bottles and containers, textiles such as mattress protectors and cushion inners, carpeting, stationery, loudspeakers, laboratory equipment, yogurt and margarine containers
Recycled into: Mixing bowls, spatulas, cutting boards, shovels, watering cans, automotive battery cases, oil funnels, ice scrapers, storage bins, shipping pallets
Polystyrene (PS)
Polystyrene is a synthetic polymer that can be solid or foamed. It can be rather brittle, is ineffective as a moisture barrier and has a low melting point. Polystyrene is one of the most widely used plastics.
Applications: Foodservice containers, disposable plates, cups, lids and cutlery, meat trays, protective packaging, building insulation, CD and DVD cases
Recycled into: Insulation, egg cartons, picture frames, mouldings, home décor products, foam protective packaging
Eco Recycling are experienced in recycling companies bulk plastic waste for all of the above products. If you’re looking to recycle
Buy Plastic Recycling Services: Your Partner in Sustainability
In today’s environmentally conscious world, recycling isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. Plastic waste continues to pose significant challenges to ecosystems and landfills, making effective recycling crucial for businesses and communities alike. If you’re searching for a trusted provider to buy plastic recycling services, your search ends at MetalsRecyclingLtd.com.
Why Recycle Plastic?
Plastic recycling reduces waste, conserves natural resources, and minimizes environmental pollution. By choosing to recycle, you:
- Lower carbon footprint: Recycling plastic consumes less energy than producing new plastic.
- Support circular economy: Recycled plastic can be transformed into new products, reducing dependency on virgin materials.
- Meet regulatory requirements: Many industries are now required to comply with environmental standards and recycling targets.
Why Choose Metals Recycling Ltd for Plastic Recycling?
At Metals Recycling Ltd, we’ve built our reputation on reliable, transparent, and efficient recycling solutions. While our name highlights metals, our services extend to comprehensive plastic recycling. Here’s why clients trust us:
1. Expertise and Experience
With years of experience in the recycling industry, we understand the complexities of plastic recycling. We handle various plastic types, including PET, HDPE, PVC, and more, ensuring they’re processed correctly and sustainably.
2. State-of-the-Art Facilities
Our advanced facilities are equipped to sort, clean, and process plastic waste efficiently. We use innovative technology to maximize recovery rates and deliver high-quality recycled materials.
3. Customized Solutions
Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, we tailor our services to meet your needs. From collection and transportation to processing and documentation, we provide end-to-end solutions.
4. Commitment to Sustainability
We prioritize eco-friendly practices in every step of the recycling process. By partnering with us, you’re contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
How to Buy Plastic Recycling Services at MetalsRecyclingLtd.com
Getting started with our plastic recycling services is simple:
- Visit Our Website: Head to MetalsRecyclingLtd.com to explore our services.
- Contact Our Team: Reach out via our contact form or phone number for a consultation. We’ll assess your plastic recycling needs and provide a tailored quote.
- Schedule Collection: We offer flexible pickup and drop-off options for your convenience.
- Receive Documentation: We provide certificates of recycling, ensuring transparency and compliance for your records.
Types of Plastic We Recycle
We accept a wide range of plastics, including:
- Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): Commonly used in bottles and food containers.
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): Found in packaging, pipes, and toys.
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Used in construction materials, pipes, and packaging.
- Polypropylene (PP): Common in automotive parts, textiles, and consumer goods.
The Environmental Impact of Plastic Recycling
When you choose to buy plastic recycling services from Metals Recycling Ltd, you’re making a tangible difference. Recycling one ton of plastic can save:
- Up to 5,774 kWh of energy.
- Over 16 barrels of oil.
- Significant landfill space.
Join the Movement Toward Sustainability
Businesses and individuals alike have a role to play in reducing plastic waste. By partnering with Metals Recycling Ltd, you’re not only disposing of plastic responsibly but also supporting the production of recycled materials for future use.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Don’t let plastic waste become an environmental burden. Buy plastic recycling services from a provider you can trust. Visit MetalsRecyclingLtd.com today to learn more and request a quote. Together, we can build a sustainable future—one piece of plastic at a time.