From packaging to household goods, RIC 3 and 4 plastics are everywhere. Learn how to identify them at a glance. Dear Reader,In my previous article, we explored the first two Resin Identification Codes— RIC 1 (PET) , commonly used in beverage and food containers, and RIC 2 (HDPE) , found in sturdy household bottles and a wide range of utility products. Both plastics are among the easiest to recycle, making them central to responsible waste management and to the broader shift towards more sustainable patterns of consumption. With this foundation in place and a clearer understanding of how these codes guide our daily choices, let us now move on to the remaining classifications in the Resin Identification System and understand what each one signifies. Code 3: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Code 3 refers to products made from polyvinyl chloride, or PVC—a remarkably versatile and inexpensive plastic valued for its durability, water resistance, and excellent electrical insulation. As the world’s third most produced plastic, PVC is manufactured in both rigid and flexible forms, each designed to meet a wide array of everyday needs. Flexible PVC, produced using plasticisers, appears in raincoats, boots, shower curtains, handbags, and imitation leather upholstery. It is also used in bottles for non-food items such as shampoos and cosmetics, in clear blister packaging for medicines, and in cling film that helps preserve the freshness and quality of food. Rigid PVC, prized for its strength and longevity, is used to manufacture credit cards, debit cards, national identity cards, and various inflatable items—from pool toys and floats to air mattresses. It is also present in yoga mats, sports equipment, and numerous DIY and craft materials that require durability and ease of handling. One of the most significant industrial uses of PVC is in piping. Rigid PVC pipes have increasingly replaced metal pipes in water supply, sewage, and drainage systems due to their resistance to corrosion, leakage, and environmental wear. Unplasticised PVC (uPVC) is widely used for window and door frames, offering excellent insulation, weather resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements. Vinyl flooring—produced as tiles, sheets, or planks—is another major PVC-based product, valued in homes, offices, and hospitals for its durability, affordability, and ease of cleaning. PVC’s strong insulating properties also make it ideal for coating electrical wires and cables, while PVC membranes and siding provide long-lasting, weather-resistant coverings for roofs and exterior walls. Although PVC can be recycled, the process is considerably more complex than with many other plastics. The numerous additives used to improve its flexibility, strength, and stability often interfere with the recycling process and can reduce the quality of the recycled material, limiting its suitability for certain applications. Code 4: LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) Code 4 identifies products made from low-density polyethylene, or LDPE—one of the most widely used plastics thanks to its lightness, flexibility, and overall durability. LDPE is commonly found in stretchable grocery bags, shopping bags, and general-purpose garbage bags. It is also extensively used in milk pouches, bread and frozen-food packaging, cling film, snack and toiletry pouches, and other everyday wrapping materials. Many squeeze bottles for glue, paints, condiments, and household liquids are made from LDPE, as are numerous lids and caps. Additionally, LDPE forms the waterproof inner lining of juice and milk cartons, helping protect the contents and extend shelf life. Beyond packaging, LDPE serves as a protective coating in various products, appears in trash-can liners, and is widely used in children’s toys such as buckets and play balls due to its resilience and safety profile. Some household goods—including certain cutting boards—are also manufactured from LDPE, benefiting from its strength and ease of cleaning. Despite its versatility and widespread use, LDPE poses notable challenges for recycling. Rigid LDPE products are somewhat easier to process, but thin bags, wraps, and cling films are difficult to collect, separate, and recycle efficiently. As a result, a significant proportion of these items unfortunately ends up in landfill. Our discussion will continue in next week’s instalment, where we will explore the remaining Resin Identification Codes in greater depth and understand how they influence recycling practices. Until then, I wish you a pleasant and enjoyable weekend. (The author is an environmentalist. Views personal.)
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