Kierrätyskoodit

Kierrätyskoodit, also known as recycling codes, are a system used to identify the type of plastic or other material a product is made from. These codes are typically found on the bottom of plastic containers and other items, often within a triangular arrow symbol. The purpose of these codes is to assist consumers and waste management facilities in sorting materials for recycling.

The most common system, widely used internationally, assigns a number from 1 to 7. Each number corresponds to a specific type of plastic resin. For instance, number 1 is for PET (polyethylene terephthalate), commonly used for beverage bottles. Number 2 represents HDPE (high-density polyethylene), found in milk jugs and detergent bottles. Number 3 is PVC (polyvinyl chloride), used in pipes and packaging. Number 4 is LDPE (low-density polyethylene), used for plastic bags and films. Number 5 is PP (polypropylene), often found in food containers and automotive parts. Number 6 is PS (polystyrene), used for foam cups and disposable cutlery. Number 7 is a catch-all for "other" plastics, which can include multi-layer materials or less common resins.

While these codes are valuable for identifying material types, they do not automatically guarantee recyclability. The actual recyclability of an item depends on local recycling infrastructure and market demand for recycled materials. Therefore, it is always recommended to check with local waste management services for specific recycling guidelines in your area. Understanding kierrätyskoodit can empower individuals to make more informed decisions about waste disposal and contribute more effectively to recycling efforts.

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