Type 1.

Polyethylene Terephthalate

(PETE)

A tough plastic commonly used for clear bottles and food trays that discolors if you bend it.

Plastics Pirate can repurpose

Type 5.

Polypropylene

(PP)

Used for butter and margarine tubs, clear takeaway containers and bottle caps, shatters into stripes if compressed.

Plastics Pirate can process

Type 2.

High-Density Polyethylene

(HDPE)

A thick tough plastic that will spring back if bent used for white milk bottles, bleach-type bottles and washing machine liquids.

Plastics Pirate can process

Type 6.

Polystyrene or Styrofoam

(PS)

Tears or pulls apart, used for yoghurt containers, insulated disposable cups, some trays and parcel packaging.

Plastics Pirate can process

Type 4.

Low-Density Polyethylene

(LDPE)

Usually flexible and easily torn, used for plastic bags, plastic wrapping & cling film.

Plastics Pirate can process

Plastics Pirate can’t process

Type 3.

Polyvinyl Chloride

(PVC – U)

Cracks and crinkles, used for clear bottles, food trays, toys, piping and wire insulation.

Type 7.

Other

Very tough and likely to shatter, used for reading glasses, CDs and DVDs and cases, some electrical connections and wiring and general household plastics.