Plastic

Plastic

There are several types of plastic used to make containers and film. Some plastics have a higher recycling potential than others. To learn more about what type of plastic something is made of, check the container or packaging for three arrows in the shape of a triangle with a number from 1 to 7 in the middle, depending on the type of plastic. Plastics with the numbers 1, 2 and 5 are generally accepted for recycling in most regions of Québec.

Plastic can be used to make :

  • Code number 1 (polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene): various bottles (water, juice, etc.);
  • Code number 2 (high density polyethylene): containers for food products or for domestic use (margarine containers, detergents, etc.);
  • Code number 3 (vinyl polychloride): containers for household cleaning products and personal care (bleach or shampoo, etc.);
  • Code number 4 (low density polyethylene): flexible containers (certain containers for semi-liquid products such as mustard, sauces, etc.) bags and stretch film (bread bags, etc.);
  • Code number 5 (polypropylene): containers and lids of certain food products such as margarine and milk products;
  • Code number 6 (polystyrene): crystal polystyrene (beer glasses, utensils, small milk and cream containers for coffee, etc.) and extruded polystyrene (coffee cups, styrofoam plates, etc.);
  • Code number 7 (other types of plastic): other plastics.

Find out from your municipality about the types of plastics that are recycled through selective collection.