Polymerkkeja

Polymerkkeja is a Finnish term that translates to "polymer marks" or "plastic marks." It refers to the identifying symbols often found on plastic products, which indicate the type of polymer used in their manufacturing. These marks are crucial for recycling efforts, allowing waste management facilities to sort plastics efficiently.

The most common polymer marks are part of a system developed by the Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI). This system uses a recycling triangle symbol containing a number from 1 to 7, each representing a different type of plastic. For instance, number 1 typically signifies PET (polyethylene terephthalate), commonly used in beverage bottles. Number 2 represents HDPE (high-density polyethylene), found in milk jugs and detergent bottles. Other numbers denote various plastics like PVC, LDPE, PP, PS, and "other" categories.

While the SPI system is widely adopted, variations and additional symbols may exist depending on the region or manufacturer. Understanding these polymer marks is essential for consumers wishing to dispose of plastic waste responsibly, as different plastic types require different recycling processes and may not be compatible with each other. The presence of these marks facilitates the recovery and reuse of valuable plastic materials, contributing to environmental sustainability.