Wondering if you can leave that empty detergent bottle or milk jug in the recycling bin? Plastics are recyclable, but not all kinds of plastic are alike. The City of Albuquerque does accept plastic for recycling with a few exceptions. That’s because some plastics or more difficult and expensive to recycle than others.
Here is a brief description of the different kinds of plastics that exist and how you should recycle them.
Polyethylene terephthalate (#1)
PETE/PET is a common type of plastic, usually used in water bottles and soda bottles. It’s accepted for recycling in most areas, including Albuquerque.
High-density polyethylene (#2)
HDPE is the type of plastic found in laundry detergent bottles and motor oil containers. These are easy to recycle, but please note that the City of Albuquerque does not accept motor oil bottles or plastic bags.
Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (#3)
PVC (used in cling wrap and most squeeze bottles) is one of the most potentially harmful kinds of plastic to recycle. Although they are accepted, it’s best to avoid them if you can.
Low-density polyethylene (#4)
LDPE is often found in grocery bags and dry cleaning bags. Though it’s difficult to recycle, it can still be accepted and repurposed into trash can liners and compost bins.
Polypropylene (#5)
PP is the type of plastic found in soup containers and disposable diapers. While it’s not easy to recycle, the City of Albuquerque does accept it.
Polystyrene (#6)
You can recycle the rigid polystyrene in CD cases or plasticware. However, the city does not accept styrofoam. It’s best to reuse styrofoam containers rather than throwing them out or trying to recycle them.
Other (#7)
This category includes all other kinds of plastics. Most of these are accepted. Though they can’t always be recycled, in most cases they are compostable.
Tips
Chemicals can be released into your food if you heat it in a plastic container. It’s best to only use them for cold foods and drinks. And always remember to wash or thoroughly rinse your plastics before using or recycling them.
With these tips in mind, you can be a more savvy user of plastic, and recycle it properly. At Junkco Albuquerque, we can pick up and take care of your recyclables as well as any other junk you have. We make sure each item goes to the proper place for disposal or recycle.