He plastic It is one of the most used materials in industry and daily life. From food containers to electronic components, this material has transformed the way we live.
However, not all plastics are the same, and their composition influences their use, their ability to recycling and its environmental impact.
To better understand how to handle this material, it is essential to know the different types of plastics and the meaning of the numbers that accompany the containers, which indicate the type of material they are made of and how they should be managed.
By identifying the type of plastic, you can know which are recyclable and which preferably avoid, thus promoting a more conscious and sustainable consumption.
In this article we explain the Types of plasticthe meaning of Recycling numbers and the products that are manufactured with each one. From the most common pet, Even more plastics complex like him number 7.
Types of plastic according to its numbering
Plastic containers carry a number within a recycling trianglewhich indicates the type of material and its ability to be reused. Next, we present the Seven more common types of plastic:
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) – number 1
It is the most common in bottles of water and soft drinks. Is recyclablebut it is not recommended to reuse it many times, since it can release toxic substances over time.
- Common uses: Beverage bottles, food containers and synthetic textiles.
HDPE (high density polyethylene) – number 2
It is a resistant and safe plastic, widely used in cleaning and milk products containers.
- Common uses: detergent bottles, shampoo containers and pipes.
- Recyclable: Yes, in most recycling programs.
PVC (vinyl polychloride) – number 3
This material is versatile, but contains toxic additives. It is used in pipes, toys and bath curtains.
- Common uses: Banking cards, electrical cables and coatings.
- Recyclability: limited, due to its toxic components.
LDPE (low density polyethylene) – number 4
It is flexible and light, used in plastic bags and food wraps.
- Common uses: Supermarket bags, film paper and flexible containers.
- Recyclability: Low, although in some countries it is recycled in small quantities.
PP (polypropylene) – number 5
It is a heat resistant material and chemicals.
- Common uses: yogurt containers, bottles and kitchen utensils.
- Recyclable: Yes, but not in all recycling centers.
PS (polystyrene) – number 6
Known as Unicel either polystyrene foamis used in food containers and disposable vessels. Its recycling is difficult.
- Common uses: Meat trays, coffee vessels and packaging material.
- Recyclability: Very low, it is recommended to avoid its use.
Other plastics – number 7
This group includes plastics of Special usesuch as polycarbonate, which can contain bisphenol A (BPA), a potentially harmful chemist.
- Common uses: Biberones, sun lenses and electronic components.
- Recyclability: limited and depends on the specific type of plastic.
Opt for materials Recyclable and reusable can reduce environmental impact and foster more responsible consumption. When identifying the Numbers in the containersyou can know which ones can be recycled and which could be at greater risk to your health.
Five moments in the history of plastic: of innovation to environmental challenges
According to a study by the Nanotechnology Laboratory of the Institute of Science, Technology and Innovation of the Gavidia University of El Salvador, these are the most relevant moments of its evolution:
Origins (1860s):
The plastic trip began with the invention of the rubber vulcanized by Charles Goodyear in 1839, but it was in 1907 when the American chemist Leo Baekeland developed the Baquelita, the first completely synthetic plastic, which allowed the creation of more durable and heat resistant products.
Introduction of the celluloid (1856)
In 1856, the celluloid, derived from cellulose, opened new horizons. This material replaced the ivory in the manufacture of billiard balls and, over time, was used in products such as toys, utensils and more.
Advance and Marketing (1900-1950):
The creation of the Baquelita marked the beginning of the expansion of plastic. Its versatility promoted its adoption in electronics, domestic products and the war industry during World War II, where it was used in everything from airplane components to uniforms.
Exponential growth (1950s-200s)
The 1950s saw the introduction of new plastics such as polyethylene and PVC, which consolidated plastic as an essential material in everyday life. In 2014, world production reached 299 million tons, evidencing its omnipresence in containers, automotive products and more.
Environmental challenges and regulations (since 2000)
With the increase in the production and use of plastic, environmental problems arose, such as contamination by plastics and micro plastics. This global impact has promoted efforts to regulate the use of plastic and develop more sustainable alternatives.
According to a study by the Faculty of Engineering of the Rafael Landívar Universityof 2009, if the consumption of disposable containers is analyzed, specifically for pure water, the data is alarming. In United States, in 2004, 28 billion bottles were consumedall manufactured with PET.
and despite the fact that accelerated recycling has been promoted, according to the article, This process remains only a small fraction of total production. Given this, an important question arises: Where are all these bottles? The answer is worrying: Most end in landfills, contributing to the growing crisis of plastic waste.
It is crucial to understand Types of plastic and its numbers to make informed decisions about your use and recycling. Moreover, in doing so, we contribute to the care of environmentand an effective way to achieve this is to be aware of our Ecological footprintimproving not only our habits of consumptionbut also our way of managing waste.