What is Recyclable?

What is recyclable?

I thought I was pretty savvy when it came to recycling until I went on a tour of Eurkea Recycling.  I learned many of the things I was recycling were really not recyclable even if the container had a recycling symbol on it. I highly recommend people take a tour like this.  It is enlightening.

What is really recyclable? 

First of all, only certain numbers on the recycling symbol are actually recyclable.  The #’s 1,2,4, and 5 are recyclable.  The rest are not.  Here is a visual to help you remember. 

Manufacturers may say something is recyclable but the recyclers have to have the technology to make it so. 

For example no black plastics are recyclable because the lasers cannot read the numbers.  They all become trash.   So, all your black take out containers are just trash.  If you get take-out or have leftovers when you are out eating, bring your own containers and eliminate the trash.  Don’t buy products in black containers. 

One of the things that I have been so impressed with Young Living and their products is they care about the earth as part of their company culture not some green washing gimmick.  I have noticed they have been replacing their product containers with either white or clear plastic bottles for the last few years.  I didn’t realize why until I went on the Eureka Recycling tour.  Black or dark containers become plastic trash but even colored plastic containers are not as good.  Recyclers need to sell the plastic in order for it to be reused and kept out of the trash.  White and clear plastics are much more sellable than colored plastics in the marketplace.  So it is better to use clear or white plastic containers than colored ones. 

Not only does Young Living do everything in a sustainable way and are committed to sustainable sourcing practices, they are reaching for the highest environmental standards in their operations. They are working to create zero waste as part of their business plan.  They send out monthly tips to help members to create zero waste in their own homes.  Click here for more reasons I am impressed with Young Living.

Target Field, the sports stadium for the Twin Cities, is only using compostable plates and containers for their food products they sell.  They also have a water filling station to encourage people to bring refillable containers than buying bottled water. 

I am choosing to vote with my dollar and buy products and services from companies that are making sincere efforts towards sustainability and reducing waste.  Where we choose to buy products or attend events makes a difference.  Buy from companies who are already making a difference in our environment not polluting it.  Ask your stadiums, theaters and restaurants to use compostable products.  Customers have influence. The more people asking places to have zero waste, the more likely they will do it.