Plastic #5: Polypropylene

Preparation

All # 5 items should be clean and dry. Paper labels and plastic film or metal seals should be removed. Please check every item to confirm the plastic number within the recycling arrows symbol. Items without a number should not be included with recyclables.

Locations

Resources

Additional Information

While we offer information and help in recycling plastic, we are well aware of the problems and limits associated with recycling. In the case of plastics, recycling often requires long journeys and processes that may be highly energy consumptive and produce toxic byproducts. We believe that drastic reduction of plastic use is needed and where possible we offer tips on how to reduce use at the household level. Addressing this problem at both the corporate and government level is also needed.

Alternatives

#5 Plastic yogurt containers can be replaced by a more environmentally safe alternative.  It is simple to make yogurt at home in reusable glass jars. It requires only two ingredients and half an hour of hands-on time. You can use any milk that has not been UHT treated–and your warm spot can be as simple as the top of the fridge. There are many tutorials online. You can make plain yogurt or add flavorings or fruit as you make it, or when you use it.