LDPE (low-density polyethylene) is a flexible plastic with many applications. Historically, it hasn’t been accepted through most American recycling programs, but more and more communities are starting to accept it.
♻️ Found in: Squeezable bottles; bread, frozen food, dry cleaning and shopping bags; Ziploc bags; tote bags; furniture
♻️ How to recycle it: While LDPE is not often recycled through curbside programs, it’s possible your community might accept it. That would mean anything made with LDPE (like toothpaste tubes) can be thrown in the trash.
Much like symbol #2, HDPE, plastic shopping bags can often be returned to stores for recycling. Most plastic bags are either resin code #2 or #4, but Pinsonnault recommends fully cleaning and drying them before recycling. “To recycle a Ziploc bag, wash any residue from both the inside and the outside of the bag and allow it to dry completely before bringing it to a drop-off site,” he says.
♻️ Recycled into: Trash can liners and cans, compost bins, shipping envelopes, paneling, lumber, landscaping ties and floor tiles
