Plastics you can't recycle and how to avoid them

Plastics types 3, 4, 6 and 7 are not accepted in our kerbside recycling collection due to a lack of onshore recycling infrastructure. Export markets are no longer taking these plastic types as they are a lower-value plastic, frequently contaminated and are harder to recycle and make into new products. These plastics should be avoided, reused or put into the rubbish bin.

Plastic type 3

Biscuits and cracker trays are often made from plastic type 3. There are plenty of great biscuit recipes available but check out the video below on how to make budget crackers or why not try these tasty seeded crackers.

Plastic type 4

Tomato sauce, mild American mustard, and lemon and lime juice bottles are often made from plastic type 4. For tomato sauce you can buy refills in cans or buy brands packaged in glass. When lemons and limes are in season, juice them and then freeze the juice in ice cube trays. Once frozen pop them into a container and defrost as needed. Making your own mustard is surprisingly quick and easy watch the video below to learn the technique.

Plastic type 6

Six pack yoghurt containers are made from plastic type 6 whereas larger containers of yoghurt are made from plastic type 5 which can be recycled in New Zealand. If you have leftover yoghurt, why not try making your own. Watch the video below to learn how.

Plastic type 7

Packets of fresh pasta are usually made from plastic type 7. Making your own pasta is a great way to save money and reduce how much plastic you use. Watch the video below to see how easy it is to make your own pasta.

Look for the triangle on a plastic container to see what type it is. If it numbered 3, 4, 6 or 7 or has no number then it is non-recyclable and should go into the rubbish bin.