US consumers will now have expanded options for recycling #5 plastic, thanks to a new initiative sponsored by Seventh Generation, Stonyfield Farms, Brita and Tom’s of Maine.
The companies have partnered with Preserve, a company that turns Polypropylene plastic (aka #5) from yogurt cups, take-out containers and other items into 100% recycled household products, like toothbrushes and tableware.
Polypropylene is the material choice for bottle caps, spray bottle heads and baby wipe tubs due to its versatility and flexibility. In addition, #5 can be easily up-cycled into new product, yet collection rates are low across the US, where only #1 and #2 plastics are commonly recycled. Preserve says only about 2% of #5 plastic is recycled in the US.
Preserve is supplied by the recycling efforts of individuals and companies via its "Gimme 5" program. Through the new sponsorship, specially marked recycling bins will be placed at Whole Foods Markets and other natural food stores across the country to accept #5 plastics.
All of Preserve’s recycling and manufacturing is done in the USA, and products can be found at retailers like Whole Foods Market, Target, and a variety of natural food stores.
"We’re always trying to increase the post-consumer content in our packaging," said Peter Swaine, director of global strategic sourcing at Seventh Generation. "Now we’re fully closing the loop on our #5 plastic, making it easy for our customers to recycle their laundry caps so in turn we can create more sustainable packaging for the products they love."
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