Muovikoodi

Muovikoodi, also known as resin identification code or plastic recycling symbol, is a system used to identify the type of plastic resin used in plastic products. It consists of a number inside a triangle of chasing arrows. The number ranges from 1 to 7, each representing a different type of plastic.

Category 1 is Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE), commonly used in beverage bottles and food jars. Category 2 is High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), found in milk jugs, detergent bottles, and some plastic bags. Category 3 is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), often used in pipes, window frames, and some packaging films. Category 4 is Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), used in plastic bags, squeeze bottles, and bubble wrap.

Category 5 is Polypropylene (PP), which is found in containers, car parts, and some textiles. Category 6 is Polystyrene (PS), used in disposable cups, plates, cutlery, and packaging foam. Category 7 is Other, which includes all other types of plastics, such as polycarbonate and acrylic, and is often found in reusable water bottles and electronics casings.

The muovikoodi is primarily used for recycling purposes, helping sorting facilities to separate different types of plastics. However, it is important to note that the presence of a muovikoodi does not automatically mean that a product is recyclable in all local recycling programs. Local recycling guidelines should always be consulted. The system was developed by the Plastics Industry Trade Association in 1988.