The Chasing Arrows Symbol
The three-arrow triangle (technically called the Möbius loop) doesn't mean a product is recyclable. When it contains a number, it identifies the type of plastic resin used. When it appears without a number on paper or cardboard, it typically means the product contains recycled content or is recyclable — but you still need to check your local program.
The symbol was standardized by the Society of the Plastics Industry in 1988 to help sorters identify resin types during processing. It was never intended to be a consumer recycling guide.
Plastics #1 and #2: Usually Accepted
<strong>PET (#1)</strong> — Polyethylene terephthalate. Clear plastic water bottles, soda bottles, salad dressing containers, peanut butter jars. Widely accepted and has strong markets worldwide.
<strong>HDPE (#2)</strong> — High-density polyethylene. Milk jugs, shampoo bottles, detergent containers, some plastic bags. Also widely accepted with strong markets. This is one of the most valuable recyclable plastics.
Plastics #3–7: Check Locally
<strong>PVC (#3)</strong> — Vinyl pipes, some food wrap, blister packs. Rarely accepted in curbside programs due to chlorine content.
<strong>LDPE (#4)</strong> — Plastic bags, bread bags, some squeezable bottles. Plastic bag drop-off programs (at grocery stores) accept this; most curbside programs don't.
<strong>PP (#5)</strong> — Yogurt containers, straws, bottle caps. Acceptance is growing but still not universal.
<strong>PS (#6)</strong> — Styrofoam cups, take-out containers, packing peanuts. Rarely accepted due to low value and difficulty of processing.
<strong>Other (#7)</strong> — Mixed plastics including polycarbonate and bioplastics. Generally not recyclable in most programs.
Other Symbols to Know
The <strong>Green Dot</strong> (two interlocking arrows) is a European symbol meaning the manufacturer has contributed to a recycling fund — it doesn't mean the product is recyclable.
<strong>Tidyman</strong> (person throwing trash in bin) is a littering prevention symbol, not a recycling symbol.
<strong>FSC</strong> (Forest Stewardship Council) on paper products means the wood came from responsibly managed forests — related to sustainability but not recycling specifically.