#5 Recycling Plastics
ReCo Recycles #5 Plastic
Did you know that less than 3% of polypropylene, identified by recycling symbol #5, is actually recycled in the US? ReCo’s mission is to address these gaps. ReCo recycles #5 plastics, which include containers and lids such as yogurt and butter tubs, takeout containers, disposable cups, and empty pill bottles. Some municipalities in our service area recycle #5 plastics curbside. Please review your local recycling guidelines before deciding if you need ReCo’s #5 service.
Since not all members require #5 plastic service, it is offered as an add-on. To request a #5 bag ($2 to $4), please visit the Member Dashboard Shop.
Please check every item for the symbol, color, and flex:
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- Symbol: Has a recycling symbol #5. Sometimes, it may also have the abbreviation “PP” underneath or beside the symbol. Check both the container and the lid for this symbol. If only one part has the symbol, only include that part.
- Color: #5 plastics are rigid and lightweight. They can be translucent (not clear) and are usually colored.
- Flex: #5 tends to be more rigid than some other plastics but will have some give under pressure, more so than polystyrene (symbol #6) but less than polyethylene (symbols #1 and #2).
Preparation:
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- Remove any food debris
- Materials should be clean and dry, but not necessarily spotless
- Stickers and labels are OK to keep on! These are washed off in the recycling process
- Place #5 in the provided Green bag
To prevent contamination, avoid these common material mistakes:
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- #3 PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is used for clear bottles but is less rigid and not commonly recycled.
#2 HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is used for milk jugs and detergent bottles, which are opaque rather than clear.
#6 PS (polystyrene) is often used in takeout containers.
- #3 PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is used for clear bottles but is less rigid and not commonly recycled.
How does ReCo recycle #5 plastic?
The ReCollective partners with Orange Recycling Services to responsibly recycle #5 plastic. ORS is a commercial recycling company, locally owned and operated for over 34 years in Durham, and serves the entire Triangle.
F.A.Q.s
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Is there an extra cost for #5 service?
Yes, we charge $4 per bag (or $10 for 5 bags if you want to buy ahead) to cover the cost of the bag, space in the van, preparation at our warehouse, and delivering the materials to the recycler.
Why is the #5 service not included in the regular subscription?
Some of our members live in areas where #5 plastics are accepted curbside. Charging members who only need clamshell service helps us keep the subscription fee low.
What size is the provided bag?
13 gallons. Please consider stacking the #5 plastic to maximize the use of the bag.
How do I order the #5 plastics bag?
Order it in the Member Dashboard Shop, and it will be delivered on your next pickup.
Can I put #5 plastics in the Plastic Film bag?
No, Plastic Film is a different material stream.
Will you still have a ReCo Pick #5 plastics month?
Yes, we still plan to offer #5 plastics as a ReCo Pick. We have many materials our members like collected through the ReCo Pick. As we try to fit all of these in the schedule, we expect #5 plastics to be about once a year.
Using the #5 plastics add-on is a great way to not use up space in your home for storing materials.
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