What Do Recycling Numbers Mean? A Guide for Construction and Manufacturing Businesses

If you run a construction or manufacturing business, chances are you handle plenty of materials packaged in plastic. From buckets and wraps on the jobsite to containers and components in your shop, you’ve likely seen the familiar triangle logo stamped on products. But what do the recycling numbers mean inside that symbol? These plastic recycling codes act like a quick-reference guide to identify the type of plastic and how (or if) it can be recycled. For businesses that generate consistent waste streams, knowing how to read plastic recycling symbols can help reduce disposal costs, simplify compliance with local recycling programs, and support broader sustainability goals.

Recycling numbers inside the triangle symbol identify the type of plastic. Numbers 1 (PET) and 2 (HDPE) are the most recyclable, numbers 4 (LDPE) and 5 (PP) are sometimes recyclable, and numbers 3 (PVC), 6 (PS), and 7 (Other) are rarely recyclable. For construction and manufacturing businesses, learning how to read recycling symbols can lower waste costs, reduce contamination fees, and improve compliance with recycling programs.

As a business owner or manager, you may tend to overlook the symbols and numbers used on recyclables, given the seeming complexity of the recycling process. But understanding these symbols can be crucial for your business, and not just because of the impact that proper recycling makes on our environment. Knowing how to decipher these recycling symbols enables your business to comply with important regulations, streamline waste management processes, and potentially even reduce your operational costs associated with disposal.

Fortunately, these recycling symbols aren't actually as complicated or difficult to understand as they may seem. In this infographic, we'll take a close look at the symbols your business needs to recognize, making it easier to grasp the recycling process so you can make it work for your business.

Recognizing recycling symbols is crucial for businesses because it ensures proper disposal and recycling of materials and containers, which contributes to environmental sustainability, streamlines processes, and reduces costs in many cases. By understanding these symbols—as well as which items are and aren't recyclable—you and your business can make informed decisions that support recycling efforts and reduce overall environmental impact.

What do recycling numbers mean?
Recycling numbers are identification codes that tell you what type of plastic a product is made from. Numbers 1 and 2 are widely recyclable, 4 and 5 are sometimes recyclable, and 3, 6, and 7 are rarely accepted.

Which plastics are recyclable by number?
Plastics labeled #1 (PET) and #2 (HDPE) are the most commonly recycled. Numbers #4 (LDPE) and #5 (PP) may be recyclable depending on your local program. Numbers #3 (PVC), #6 (PS), and #7 (Other) are rarely recyclable.

How can construction and manufacturing businesses use recycling symbols?
By teaching teams how to read recycling symbols, businesses can streamline waste management, lower disposal costs, and meet sustainability goals without disrupting daily operations.

Are all items with the recycle symbol recyclable?
Not always. The arrows only indicate that the item is made of a recyclable material, but acceptance depends on local recycling programs and the number inside the symbol.

Recycling may seem complicated, but the recycle symbol offers a straightforward tool for small business owners. By learning what recycling numbers mean and using a recycle number chart, businesses in construction and manufacturing can make smarter, more efficient decisions about waste.

Product Compliance and Suitability

The statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.