Plastics Recycling

What's the problem?

Chasing Arrows Graphic Plastics are made from petroleum, which is a non-renewable material. Plastics don't biodegrade and use up large volumes of landfill space.

How do I get rid of it?

You can recycle plastics marked with the numbers 1 through 7 in most curbside programs and at drop-off recycling centers throughout the Kansas City metro area.

These numbers appear in the "chasing arrow" symbol usually found on the bottom of the container. These plastics include most food and beverage containers.

Not sure what types of plastic are accepted in your bin or drop-off facility? Contact your hauler or recycling center.

Accepted Plastics:

Drink and condiment bottles
Jars (peanut butter, mayonnaise, etc.)
Deli and takeout containers (no Styrofoam™)
Butter tubs and yogurt cups
Lids and caps
Frozen food microwave trays
Blister packs and clamshell packaging (clear plastic used to protect toys, electronics, personal care products, household goods, etc.)
Snack canisters
Shampoo, conditioner and soap bottles

Not Accepted Plastics:

Items that don't have numbers 1-7 printed on them
Styrofoam™ products
Disposable cups, plates and utensils
Sheet materials or wraps, six-pack rings, bubble wrap
Bags (grocery, retail, newspaper sleeve, food storage, potato chip)
Prescription bottles and medical supplies
Building materials (PVC pipe, vinyl siding)
Hazardous substance containers (motor oil, paint, chemicals)

How to prep your plastics:

Empty and rinse all containers
Remove (and recycle) plastic lids and caps
Flatten large plastic bottles

Exceptions

Some plastic building materials are accepted for reuse at Habitat for Humanity ReStores in Missouri and Kansas.
Plastic shopping bags are accepted at a number of grocery and retail stores.
White Styrofoam™ blocks and peanuts are accepted at ACH Foam Technologies and the Kansas City Community Recycling Centers on Barry Road and Hillcrest Road. All items must be clean and placed in bags.
Toys and outdoor play sets in good condition are accepted at thrift stores.
Plastic planting pots are accepted at some area nurseries.

How can I reduce it?

Start by using cloth or paper bags at grocery and retail stores. Instead of disposable plastic items, stick with reusable food containers and utensils. Buy products in bulk or with less plastic packaging.