The Mobius Loop vs. The Resin Identification Code (RIC)
When it comes to plastic recycling, there are two crucial symbols found against each - and every - material type that is an indicator of its recyclability. The ubiquitous recycling symbol, depicted as a three-arrow Mobius Loop, has served as the global identifier for recycling since its inception in 1970. Its initial deployment aimed to promote consumer awareness regarding recycled paper.
A separate, yet visually related, identification system emerged in 1988: a triangular mark containing a number from 1 to 7. This symbol designates the plastic resin identification code (RIC), providing critical information about the plastic's constituent resin. The numerical value within the triangle specifies the particular type of plastic used in the container's fabrication.
The RIC system was initially conceived to aid recyclers in classifying plastic products and packaging by their material composition, which is essential for determining appropriate recycling processes. The RIC System is also commonly known as the Plastic Identification Code.
Plastic Identification Codes in Laboratory Consumables
Plastic identification codes, such as the RIC System, play a crucial role in the responsible management and disposal of plastic laboratory consumables. These codes, typically found molded into the plastic material, provide a standardized method for identifying the specific resin type used in the manufacturing of items such as pipette tips, centrifuge tubes, and culture dishes.
The numerical indicator within the RIC triangle, typically ranging from 1 to 7, directly correlates to a particular plastic polymer (e.g., 1 for PET, 2 for HDPE, 5 for PP). This information is essential for laboratory personnel and waste management professionals to accurately segregate and process plastic waste streams.
Proper identification and separation based on resin type are critical for optimizing recycling efforts, minimizing contamination, and ensuring compliance with relevant environmental regulations. Furthermore, understanding the plastic composition of consumables can inform purchasing decisions, promoting the selection of materials that are more readily recyclable or have a lower environmental impact within the laboratory setting.
Laboratory's around Australia can reduce the amount of single-use plastic waste being used in their processes by identifying the key plastic codes on the products that they use most. Auditing your products to determine a list of single-use plastic products, and discovering whether an alternative product that may be more recyclable is available is key.
Understanding Plastic Identification Codes.
Not all types of plastics are generally recycled and recycling facilities may not be available in some areas so the information above is provided as a guide only.
Techno Plas and the Evironment
At Techno Plas environmental impact is a key tenant of how to do business. Utilising the latest technologies from around the world, over 50% of production has been converted to highly energy efficient electric moulding machines - which reduces power usage by over 30%.
In addition, Techno Plas works closely with customers to remove unnecessary elements from their products and packaging, creating benefits for the environment and our customers, while continually reviewing packaging and logistics to reduce packaging waste and minimise the freight component of our carbon footprint.