The term “circular economy” was a frequent guest in this year’s energy and climate news cycles, ranging from discussions about new support measures, regional developments, limiting food waste, circularity in the lithium-ion battery industry or the removal of illegal waste sites in Poland.
With this in mind, we take a look at the types of plastics, how to recycle them and which to avoid buying this Christmas period.
Plastic is a major obstacle on the road towards the circular economy – as only 9 per cent of plastic around the world is “successfully recycled” while a staggering 22 per cent is mishandled, according to an OECD report from 2022. Yet, despite these concerning figures, plastic pollution often struggles to gain much societal awareness – especially during the festive season.
There are 7 types of plastics, but only some can be recycled. Starting with some good news: the most common plastic materials – PET (Type 1) and HDPE (Type 2) – are very much recycling-friendly. It is usually used to make products ranging from bottles, peanut butter jars and other food products to cleaning products and containers. So, if you are buying a present for a “foodie” or those who cannot wait for the weekly clean – most potential gifts are on the climate “green list.”
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Moving to what we perhaps could call the “yellow” climate list – where a little more caution is advised – are plastics that can be more difficult to recycle but are still nevertheless possible: low-density polyethylene (Type 4), polypropylene (Type 5) and polystyrene (Type 6). These plastics are typically used to make cups, bubble wrap and other food wrapping, hot food containers, DVD/CD boxes or packaging tape.
At the same time, it is important to make note of some red flags in these plastics: Type 4 is more difficult to recycle than Type 1 and Type 2 plastics and is used to make plastic shopping bags, while Type 5 plastics are easier to recycle, they are nonetheless used for plastic straws. Both also contain toxic substances like aldehydes, ketones or carboxylics.
Red flags
As we have already mentioned some red flags, the time has come to mention the types of plastics that you should really avoid this Christmas: polyvinyl chloride (Type 3) and most other plastics that are not under the plastic groups mentioned already, for example – fibreglass (Type 7). These are used for a wide range of products and industries – from clothing, phone cases to construction.
Due to environmental concerns, Type 3 plastic is becoming increasingly unpopular in the clothing industry. Nevertheless, due to its water-resistant properties, it is still used to make raincoats, skiing equipment, shoes and other outerwear.
Not only are Type 3 and 7 plastics highly toxic, but they are also known for being the most difficult to recycle, with less than 1 per cent recycled worldwide. What is perhaps even more important is that polyvinyl chloride and a majority of Type 7 can never be decomposed. For comparison, Type 1 takes 5 to 10 years, Type 5: 20 to 30 years, Type 6: 50 years, Type 2: 100 years, and Type 4: 500 to 1,000 years.
Greener alternatives
Looking back at the climate-induced events we saw this year has clearly pointed to the need for change: all the way from the global energy mix to the way we celebrate Christmas. Luckily, today’s world also offers new ways to make this shift not only a perfect gift for the plant but also for those closest to us.
One of those ways can be found in the ever-expanding digital space. As an alternative, consider digital gifts such as e-books, music subscriptions or online courses.
But, if you like seeing your Christmas tree packed with “psychical presents,” consider ditching traditional wrapping paper and opt for using fabric gift wrap, scarves or even old maps and newspapers to create unique and eco-friendly wrapping options.
Other alternatives may include stainless steel water bottles or travel mugs, organic cotton tote bags, upscaled or handmade jewellery, potted plants or seeds – or “experience gifts” like tickets to the EURO 2024 football tournament or a Taylor Swift concert!
The options, of course, do not stop there. The more alternatives we consider, the closer we get to stopping the climate crisis – simply, one Christmas gift at a time.