What are the recycling compatibility issues when mixing different plastics in trash cans?

When different types of plastics are mixed in trash cans, significant recycling compatibility issues arise that can compromise the entire recycling process. Plastics are categorized by resin identification codes (1-7) representing distinct chemical compositions with different melting points and properties. Mixing incompatible plastics during recycling can lead to degraded material quality, processing equipment damage, and ultimately cause entire batches to be rejected and sent to landfills.

The most common compatibility issues occur when mixing polyethylene terephthalate (PET #1) with polyvinyl chloride (PVC #3), as PVC contamination can ruin PET recycling streams. Similarly, mixing different plastic types creates material weaknesses in recycled products and increases processing costs due to the need for additional sorting and separation. Food residue and non-plastic contaminants further exacerbate these problems, making proper sorting at the source crucial for effective recycling.

Understanding these compatibility challenges helps consumers make informed decisions about plastic disposal, ultimately supporting more efficient recycling systems and reducing environmental impact through improved waste management practices.