More Plastic Will Mean Increased RU Recycling Capabilities

Due to an increased ability to accept a wider range of plastic, Radford University’s recycling efforts have expanded.

The university community can now recycle most plastics at the recycling bins located across campus.  Plastics with resin codes 1 through 7 can now be dropped into the bins for proper recycling. RU previously accepted only resin codes 1 and 2, yet was able to recycle more than 15 tons in the 2010-11 fiscal year.  Stan Wilkinson, recycling coordinator, noted that plastic grocery bags and product wraps, known as “plastic film,” and plastic foam – shipping material and cups -  are still prohibited. However, grocery bags are commonly recycled at collection programs offered through supermarkets in the area.

“We have maxed out the full spectrum of available types of plastics to recycle and are more efficient now,” Wilkinson said.

Wilkinson said the campus can disregard the current labels on the campus recycling bins referring to resin codes 1 and 2. Any plastic with a code of 1 through 7 can be put in any campus plastic recycling bin. The labels will be changed by the end of the year.

Most plastic items used on campus are marked with a Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) resin identification code or symbol that identifies its polymer type. The international coding system facilitates efficient separation for recycling.