Understand once and for all: is plastic film recyclable?

The question of whether the plastic film is recyclable is one of the most frequent among consumers. The reason for this is simple: despite being a commonly used plastic, it has specific properties, such as its great flexibility. So, in order to better understand your disposal, we have prepared this article with several good tips!

 

After all, is plastic film recyclable or not?

The answer is yes! Plastic film, like all other types of PVC plastic, can be totally recycled. And there are three specific ways to do this.

  1. Chemical recycling

Still in the testing and improvement phase, this is the most technological way to recycle. In it, the plastic goes through processes that involve several substances until it becomes petrochemical matter again. So, it can be used again in the production chain.

  1. Energy recycling

Here, the material is turned into fuel through its incineration. Thanks to technological advances, it is possible to ensure that this is done in a sustainable and economically profitable way. To avoid the emission of polluting gases, for example, it is necessary that the process has air filters.

  1. Mechanical recycling

In this technique (which is the most popular of the three), the plastic is crushed by a machine and, after being reprocessed, has its increased service life e becomes a new product. When the material is flexible, it usually becomes a shoe sole! Interesting, isn't it?

 

And, in Brazil, what happens to plastic film?

In Brazil, the only type of recycling carried out with PVC-type plastics is the mechanical recycling. Several factors explain this, such as the high cost of other methods and the difficulty in collecting the material. 

Even so, Brazil almost equals several countries, such as France and the United Kingdom, when it comes to the amount of recycled PVC plastic. The national rate, according to the most recent research on the topic by Brazilian PVC Institute, is 17,1% recycled post-consumer PVC. 

In the same survey, it was reported that the 72 recycling companies consulted by experts invoice about R $ 142 million e generate more than 1.400 jobs. In addition, it is possible to see that the industry has been growing in the last decade - and has the potential to advance much more!

 

So how should I dispose of my plastic film? 

We need to take special care with the disposal of plastic film to facilitate the work and make recycling possible. Therefore, we have separated some recommendations for you.

  1. Clean the plastic before disposing of it!

When there is food residue in the plastic, recycling is difficult. This is because the materials are confused in reprocessing, and may even cause damage to machinery. Thus, it is essential that the plastic passes through a basic hygiene before disposal to avoid, mainly, leftover food scraps. 

  1. Dispose of at the correct destination!

Although PVC plastic is completely recyclable, it cannot be discarded with other types of plastic and needs to be directed to specific collection points. This is very important, because the PVC polymer differs from the polymers that make up other plastics. Therefore, its recycling is done separately to ensure the effectiveness of the process.

To find the appropriate collection point, you can click on this link and select the “plastic film” category. Then, just enter your zip code and discover the options closest to your home to carry out recycling. 

In addition, it is important to remember that, in the case of using plastic film for purposes that can generate contamination - the medical area, for example -, it is important not to discard it in common recycling points. The ideal is to follow the current legislation to dispose of it in the appropriate trash and avoid possible complications.

  1. Use consciously! 

Sustainable behavior is not just about recycling. It is also interesting to keep in mind that plastic must be used responsibly. For this, you can buy from brands that fight waste e offer their plastic film in a rail packaging, for example. Thus, you prevent the product from wrapping, spending only what is necessary for your food to be protected in an appropriate way.

In addition, you can also contribute to the environment avoiding food waste! For this, choose the only plastic film on the market that has an antibacterial protection shield. Thus, the your food lasts much longer (check out a test here!).

What's up? Is it clearer now? Plastic film is recyclable and everyone can do their part to ensure a good life for future generations!

 

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