What does "Plastics #1-7" Mean?

When picking up trash to recycle, it's important to be informed about what the different numbers on the plastics actually mean. Here's a quick guide.

This number is a "resin identification code", which helps recyclers sort materials.

Plastic #1 - polyethylene terephthalate (PET) -> the most frequent

Plastic #2 - high density polyethylene (HDPE) -> shopping bags, jugs, bottles, etc.

Plastic #3 - Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) -> cooking oil & shampoo bottles

Plastic #4 - low density polyethylene (LDPE) -> plastic films, bags, wraps

Plastic #5 - Polypropylene (PP) -> container for liquids e.g ketchup

Plastic #6 - Polystyrene (PS) -> super versatile plastic

Plastic #7 - Misc. category

Source: https://www.greenmatters.com/renewables/2018/09/13/ZG59GA/plastic-recycling-numbers-resin-codes