Learn how to properly recycle plastic materials.
California faces significant challenges with plastic recycling, as over 85% of single-use plastics still end up in landfills despite the state's ambitious recycling initiatives. Packaging alone constitutes more than 50% of landfill waste by volume. To address this, California enacted Senate Bill 54, which mandates a 25% reduction in single-use plastic packaging by 2032 and requires 65% of such packaging to be recycled. Additionally, all single-use packaging must be recyclable or compostable by that year.
While plastics labeled with recycling codes 1, 2, and 5 are more commonly recyclable—such as water bottles and milk jugs—many other plastics, like flexible films and utensils, remain non-recyclable due to their design. California has invested in infrastructure and legislation to create a circular economy for plastics, including grants for recycling technology and market development payments for recycled materials. However, the state continues to grapple with international restrictions on plastic exports and the lack of domestic markets for certain types of recycled plastics
California's plastic recycling programs help with the states recycling initiatives. Here are some quick facts about plastic recycling in California.
In California, recycling just 10 plastic bottles provides enough material to create a new article of clothing like a t-shirt.
California's Beverage Container Recycling Program pays 5¢ for containers under 24 ounces and 10¢ for larger containers
According to CalRecycle, California's plastic bottle recycling rate was 68% in 2022, making it one of the highest in the nation
There are multiple types of plastic. To ensure more plastic gets recycled properly and stays out of California landfills, follow these important steps:
Look for the resin identification code (1-7) inside the recycling symbol on plastic items. Most California programs readily accept #1 and #2 plastics, while others may have limitations.
Empty all contents, rinse containers to remove food residue, and remove caps and labels when possible. Flatten items to save space in your recycling bin.
Place accepted plastics in your curbside recycling bin. Take CRV-eligible bottles to redemption centers for refunds. Special items like plastic bags may require drop-off at grocery store locatins.
Plastic is one of the most recycled materials in California. To ensure your plastic is recycled properly, follow these do's and don'ts:
Yes, some plastics are recyclable, but not all types. In California, the most commonly recycled plastics are #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE), which include water bottles, soda bottles, milk jugs, and detergent containers. The recyclability of plastic depends on the resin type, local recycling infrastructure, and market demand for recycled materials.
Plastic bags are not accepted in California curbside recycling programs. However, they can be recycled through designated collection bins at major grocery stores and retailers throughout California under the state's at-store recycling program (SB 270). Clean and dry plastic bags, produce bags, bread bags, newspaper bags, and plastic film packaging should be taken to these drop-off locations rather than placed in home recycling bins where they can jam sorting equipment.
In most California communities, plastics #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE) are consistently recyclable through curbside programs. Plastics #3 through #7 have limited recyclability and acceptance varies by jurisdiction. Check with your local waste management authority for specific guidelines, as some areas may accept #5 (polypropylene) while others might not. Under California's truth in labeling law (SB 343), only materials that are actually recycled in most California programs can display the chasing arrows symbol.
The numbers 1-7 inside the recycling symbol identify the resin type:
#1 (PET/PETE): Used for water bottles, soda bottles
#2 (HDPE): Milk jugs, detergent bottles, shampoo bottles
#3 (PVC): Pipes, siding, flooring, medical tubing
#4 (LDPE): Plastic bags, squeezable bottles
#5 (PP): Yogurt containers, medicine bottles, bottle caps
#6 (PS): Styrofoam cups, food containers, packing peanuts
#7 (Other): Mixed or layered plastics, bioplastics
According to CalRecycle data, California recycles approximately 2 billion pounds of plastic containers annually through its beverage container recycling program. The statewide recycling rate for plastic bottles in the California Redemption Value (CRV) program was approximately 68% in 2022.
Proper recycling helps conserve resources, reduce waste, and protect our environment for future generations.
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