If you take a close look at the bottom of a plastic bottle or jar, you might notice a symbol consisting of a number surrounded by a triangle or three arrows in the shape of a triangle—this is called the resin identification code. Many people think that this symbol means that the package can be recycled. A resin identification code does not mean the package can be recycled.
It’s important to note that using the resin code is voluntary for producers of packaging. And, because the resin codes don’t indicate whether a plastic is recyclable, Recycle BC discourages residents from using the codes to identify whether a package is accepted in our packaging and paper recycling program. Instead, we encourage you to refer to the list of accepted materials.
For more information: www.plasticactioncentre.ca/directory/plastic-by-the-numbers