HOW TO RECYCLE PLASTICS: Only recycle plastic bottles and jugs. To determine that the container is a bottle or jug, make sure it has a neck. In other words, the top must be narrower than the body or base. Remove and discard lids and caps. Flatten to save space.
WHAT NOT: Do not include plastic containers other than bottles or jugs. For example, do not include margarine tubs, yogurt cups or plastic trays.
WHERE: Some companies collect curbside. Also, accepted at all recycling drop-off centers except Baron Cameron Park.
WHY: Plastic bottles and jugs have different characteristics from other plastic containers. For example, a plastic milk bottle has a different melting point than a plastic margarine tub. It is important that bottles and jugs are collected separately so that these unique properties can be retained. Markets for plastics other than bottles and jugs continue to be weak. In Fairfax County, we only collect what we can sell to recyclers. Mixing in other types of plastics (e.g., yogurt cups, margarine tubs) interferes with our ability to market the materials. A few incorrect plastic containers can result in an entire load of plastic bottles and jugs being rejected. So remember: When in doubt, leave it out!
WHAT ABOUT THE NUMBER: Don't worry about the number! In the past, residents were encouraged to identify the resin identification code of a plastic container prior to recycling it. At this point, markets are primarily concerned with the shape of the container. So…you DON'T need to check the number…but you DO need to make sure the container is a bottle or a jug!