Plastic Free July: 8 Types of Plastic to Know About

In our modern world many types of plastic play key roles in our daily lives, but they also have significant negative impact on our daily lives. From packaging materials to automotive parts, and medical devices to household items, plastics are everywhere.

However, not all plastics are created equal. Understanding the different types of plastics, including the emerging category of bioplastics, can help us make more informed decisions about their use, recycling, and impact on ourselves and the environment.

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1. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE)

Polyethylene Terephthalate, commonly known as PET, is a strong, lightweight plastic widely used in packaging, especially for beverages and food. It is considered to be a good barrier and this is why it tends to be used in food packaging. PET, identified with the recycling code #1, is also used to create synthetic fibres such as polyester. This type of plastic is recyclable.

This type of plastic has been found to negatively impact human health in many ways, as summarized in the following diagram:

2. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

High-Density Polyethylene is known for its high strength-to-density ratio. It is used in a variety of applications due to its durability and resistance to chemicals. Key properties include high impact and weather resistance. HDPE is identified with the recycling code #2 and is used to create milk jugs, detergent bottles, pipe systems and plastic lumber, among other products. This type of plastic is also recyclable.

Like many other plastics, HDPE has been found to leach estrogenic chemicals into whatever contents it may be in contact with.

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl Chloride is one of the most versatile plastics. It comes in two forms: rigid and flexible. This plastic tends to be durable and resistant to chemicals. PVC, marked with recycling code #3, is often used in the manufacture of pipes for plumbing, medical equipment, wire and cable insulation, and flooring products.

However, it’s impact on humans and the evironment is concerning:

“PVC is considered as the most environmentally damaging plastic and one of the most toxic substances for inhabitants of our planet. From cradle to grave, the PVC lifecycle (production, use, and disposal) results in the release of toxic, chlorine-based chemicals, and it is one of the world’s largest dioxin sources. These toxins build up in water, air, and food chains. They cause severe health problems, including cancer, immune system damage, and hormone disruption.“

National Institute of Health

4. Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

Low-Density Polyethylene is flexible and tough, making it ideal for film applications. This plastic is identified by recycling code #4 and is often found in plastic bags, shrink wraps, and squeezable bottles.

LDPE is generally considered a safer plastic in terms of human health impacts.

5. Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is a tough and rigid plastic that is resistant to many chemical solvents, bases, and acids. It is known to have a high melting point and resistance to breaking. As such it is often used in packaging, automotive parts, textiles such as carpets, and reusable containers. This plastic is recyclable and has a recyling code of #5.

In general, the National Institute of Health notes that this is a generally safer in terms of impact on human health than many other plastics.

6. Polystyrene (PS)

Polystyrene can be rigid or foamed. It’s widely used but has raised environmental concerns due to its slow degradation rate. It is favoured in certain applications for it’s thermal insulation and low cost. However it is brittle and so may easily be broken. This plastic is marked with recycling code #6 and can be found in applications such as disposable coffee cups, food boxes, and plastic cutlery.

“Styrofoam is not considered safe for human health due to the presence of a chemical called styrene, which can leach out of the foam and into food or drinks that come into contact with it. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and has been linked to a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, nervous system effects, and developmental problems in children.“

Simply Plastic Free

7. Bioplastics

Bioplastics are an innovative and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics. Made from renewable biomass sources, such as corn starch, sugarcane, and cellulose, bioplastics aim to reduce the carbon footprint associated with plastic production and disposal. Types of bioplastics include:

1. Polylactic Acid (PLA) PLA is derived from plant starch (usually corn) and is compostable under industrial conditions. It is used in food packaging, disposable cutlery and medical implants.

2. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) PHAs are created from sugars or lipids and are biodegradable. They find applications in packaging, agricultural use, and medical devices.

3. Starch Blends Starch-based plastics are made by blending starch with traditional plastics or other biopolymers. They are used in packaging, agricultural applications, and disposable items.

8. Other Plastics

This category includes various other plastics like polycarbonate, acrylic, and nylon. These materials have diverse properties and applications, from DVDs to eyewear lenses and automotive parts. They are labeled with the recycling code #7.

Environmental Impact and Recycling

Understanding the different types of plastics is crucial for proper recycling and minimizing environmental impact. Traditional plastics can take hundreds of years to degrade, contributing to pollution and harm to wildlife. Bioplastics, while offering a more sustainable alternative, require specific conditions for composting and may not be compatible with conventional recycling systems.

Conclusion

Plastics, including bioplastics, are integral to many aspects of modern life, but they come with significant health and environmental challenges. By understanding the different types of plastics and their properties, we can make more sustainable choices. Whether it’s opting for recyclable plastics, embracing bioplastics, or opting out of plastics a little bit more every day, all our efforts add up as we work together to reduce the footprint of plastic on our planet.

Take up the Plastic Free July challenge today and get started on reducing your plastic use!

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