What Do You Know about Plastic Recycling?

Feb 19, 2025 | Climate

Did you know?

  • Only about 5% of the plastic we put in our recycling bins is recycled.1
  • Plastic comes from fossil fuels, and manufacturing plastics produces greenhouse gas emissions.2
  • As plastics break down, they form microplastics, which have been found in human livers, kidneys, and placentas.2
  • Every year, 11 million metric tons of plastic enter our oceans.3

So, how can we reduce plastic waste?

  • To cut down on single-use plastic laundry jugs, buy powdered laundry detergent in boxes (Tide, Arm & Hammer, All, Gain), or try these laundry tablets from Blueland. Blueland’s starter set includes a metal can to store the tablets, and refills come in a paper sack.
  • To cut down on plastic at the supermarket or produce stand, use these net bags for fruits and veggies (available at Fred Meyer and QFC), and avoid produce wrapped in plastic.
  • Bring reusable bags when you go shopping.
  • Use a reusable water container instead of water bottled in plastic. Buy beverages in glass rather than plastic.
  • Forgo straws or pack a metal straw when you eat out. Tell your server you don’t want a plastic straw.
  • When you eat out, bring containers from home for leftovers.
  • If you bring your lunch, package it in reusable containers.
  • Bring your reusable cup to church and Starbucks.
  • Carry metal or bamboo utensils to avoid using plastic cutlery at cafes or the airport.

Where does unrecycled plastic go?

  • Nearly all non-recyclable plastics end up in landfills, along with a large percentage of contaminated recyclable packaging. They will take hundreds of years to decompose.4
  • Plastic waste also ends up in the oceans. Wastewater, wind, rain, and floods carry plastic waste into the oceans.4

Get more information on single-use plastics:

1 “Recycling plastic is practically impossible—and the problem is getting worse.” All Things Considered, National Public Radio. https://www.npr.org/2022/10/24/1131131088/recycling-plastic-is-practically-impossible-and-the-problem-is-getting-worse

2 U.S. EPA website. https://www.epa.gov/plastics/impacts-plastic-pollution#environmental

3 Ocean Conservancy website. https://oceanconservancy.org/trash-free-seas/

4 Takeaway Packaging website. https://takeawaypackaging.co.uk/how-to-dispose-non-recyclable-plastic