The Shadow
Dear Recycle Lady,
I know #1 clamshell containers are not recyclable here, but what about the clear, solid (no holes or perforations) tops to take out and other food containers that are #1? And what about the large, deep, clear #1 containers that fresh spinach comes in? Does the recycling center only want bottles?
Recycler
Dear Recycler,
Plastic food containers, regardless of the recycling symbol, are not recyclable. These containers are made of a low-melt #1 PET, so they are not as durable as bottle-grade #1 PET. Plus, most of these containers are mixed with additives to make them moisture-resistant. Additionally, plastic food containers often contain food residue and are thus contaminated, which is the number one reason that plastic food containers are not recyclable. Greasy takeout containers and containers with glossy stickers or ink-printed designs are also contaminants, a serious problem for recyclers. One unrinsed plastic container that has food residue left in it can contaminate an entire load of recyclables. According to https://blistera.com/why-are-clamshell-containers-not-recyclable/, regulatory pressure is mounting, and states like California are now requiring that all packaging, including clamshells, be recyclable or compostable by 2032. You are correct in saying that bottles and jugs are the only plastics that the Recycle Center accepts, as they are made with a higher grade of PET plastic.
Dear Recycle Lady,
What is the difference between global warming and climate change?
Curious
Dear Curious,
Global warming and climate change are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. In fact, global warming is one aspect of climate change. Other aspects of climate change, according to nasa.gov, are rising sea levels, shrinking mountain glaciers, accelerating ice in Greenland, Antarctica and the Arctic, and shifts in flower/plant blooming times. Deserts are expanding, heat waves and wildfires are becoming more common, as is water scarcity, disease and economic loss. All of these factors are consequences of global warming. The Earth Science Division of NASA operates more than 20 satellites in orbit, looking for new ways to observe changes in oceans, land cover, ice, atmosphere, and life, and to study potential solutions.
Dear Recycle Lady,
Several packages that we have received in the mail lately have been in envelopes lined with thin plastic bubble wrap inside. Can these envelopes be recycled?
Questioning Recycler
Dear Questioning Recycler,
Unfortunately, the envelopes with bubble wrap are difficult to recycle because the bubble wrap is glued inside the envelope and is very difficult to separate. Thus, these envelopes that are both paper and plastic are not recyclable, unless they have a recycle symbol on them. However, all of these envelopes can be reused for future mailings. It’s good to know you are considering different kinds of items for recycling. Thanks for asking.
Interesting Information: Scientists have confirmed that by feeding and pooping, whales are heroes of the ocean. Since whale poop is rich in nutrients like iron, it helps phytoplankton grow. These tiny ocean plants of phytoplankton absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, helping reduce the carbon dioxide (CO2) that goes into the atmosphere. Phytoplankton is the basis of the food chain for all ocean life. The tiniest creatures like krill depend on it for their food, and they in turn are the food source for larger organisms such as fish, penguins and other sea birds, on and on up the food chain!
Have questions about recycling or interesting information about recycling? Send questions or requests to Recyclelady7@gmail.com. Dear Recycle Lady is sponsored jointly by the Greenbrier Recycling Center and Greenworks Recycling.
