Let's get to know the 7 types of plastic and ways to recycle ♻️
A lot of people think the plastics are just the same. But, actually, each type of them has different properties includes the strength, clearness, heat restriction, or the flexibility that makes each of the plastic types appropriate for its purpose, and if we understand that there are have the 7 types of them, we will be able to use it correctly, including separating waste for recycling more efficiently. 🌍
What is plastic? Why do we have to know the types of them?
Plastic is a synthetic material used in many areas, ranging from everyday packaging to the medical and construction industries. Its main advantages are low cost, light weight, and flexibility in shaping. Nevertheless, its major drawback is that it decomposes very slowly. Without proper management, plastic waste can lead to severe environmental challenges.
Therefore, understanding of the types of plastics is not only about a particular purpose, but it's also about enabling proper sorting and recycling. This helps to reduce the unnecessary waste and protects the world.
How many types of plastic are there? Let's check it out!
1. HDPE (High Density Polyethylene)
- Properties: strong, resistant to chemicals
- Uses: baby bottles, shampoo bottles, chemical containers
2. PP (Polypropylene)
- Properties: heat resistant
- Uses: food box, microwave, baby bottle
3. PS (Polystyrene)
- Properties: lightweight, cheap price
- Uses: food box foam, plastic cup
4. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
- Properties: strong plastic, durability
- Uses: water pipes, electrical wires, credit cards
5. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
- Properties: Clear, lightweight, easy to recycling
- Uses: drinking water bottle, soft drink bottles
6. LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene)
- Properties: high flexibility
- Uses: plastic bags with handles, food wrap
7. Other (พลาสติกประเภทอื่น ๆ)
- Properties: mixed plastic, engineer plastic
- Uses: CD, strong water bottle, oil bottle
How to Properly Sort and Recycle the 7 Types of Plastic
- PET, HDPE, PP → Easy to recycle and high economic cost
- PVC, PS, Other → Difficult to recycle and requires the high technology
- LDPE → Recyclable in some systems, but not yet widely available
Cleaning and sorting plastics before disposal is an important step that makes it possible for them to be truly reused or recycled.
Summary the 7 Types of Plastic and Sustainable Use Guidelines
Understanding of 7 types of plastics is not only useful for choosing the right applications, but also serves as the first step toward effective plastic waste management and recycling. If everyone helps with waste separation from the source, it can reduce the problem of accumulated garbage, protect the environment, and create a better world to live in. 🌱