Just about everyone recognizes the symbol in our Green Slacker banner. It's the universal symbol to identify recyclable materials.

While you may recognize the recycle symbol did you know that the number in the middle of the symbol identifies the type of recyclable material used to make the packaging? And this is where it gets interesting because not all recyclable packaging is created equal.

In the center of the symbol is a number from 1 to 7. Each number represents the type of material used to make the packaging.

It is important to note that some of the materials cannot be easily recycled because they release toxins harmful to our environment and to our bodies. Do not be fooled by the recycle symbol - look closer at the number inside.

Packaging with the number 1 or number 2 is the most recycle friendly.

Try to avoid packaging with a 3 or 6. This type of packaging has the potential to leach toxins into our foods and environment.

Look for alternatives. Buy eggs in paper cartons. Skip the red and blue plastic party cups. Buy a cheap set of utensils (garage sale?) and use those for parties instead of plastic plates and utensils.

Reduce and reuse.

Symbols

Below are the recycling symbols found on common packaging and some facts about what the number means.

PETE

PETE goes into soft drink, juice, water, detergent, and cleaner bottles. Also used for cooking and peanut butter jars.

Recycled into: fleece clothing, bottles, furniture, carpet; low risk of leaching toxins.

HDPE

HDPE goes into milk and water jugs, bleach bottles, detergent and shampoo. Plastic bags and grocery sacks, motor oil bottles, household cleaners and butter tubs.

Recycled into: benches, dog houses, floor tiles, lumber, fencing; low risk of leaching toxins.

PVC

PVC goes into window cleaner, cooking oils, and detergent bottles. Also used for peanut butter jars and water jugs.

Rarely recycled. Increasing concerns over the potential toxicity.

LDPE

LDPE goes into plastic bags and grocery sacks, dry cleaning bags and flexible film packaging. Also some bottles.

Recycled into: floor tile, compost bins, paneling; historically not been accepted by curbside programs.

PP

PP goes into caps, disks, syrup bottles, yogurt tubs, straws and film packaging.

Recycled into: battery cables, brooms, ice scraper, trays; becoming more accepted by recycling programs.

PS

PS goes into meat trays, egg cartons, plates, cutlery, carry-out containers and clear trays.

Recycled into: rulers, foam packaging, carry out containers; evidence suggests it can leach toxins into foods.

OTHER

Includes resins not mentioned above or combinations of plastics.

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